velaglucerase alfa IV
Generic Name: VELAGLUCERASE ALPHA - INJECTIONPronounced: (VEL-a-GLOO-ser-ase Al-fa)
velaglucerase alfa IV Uses
Velaglucerase is used to treat a certain rare genetic problem (Gaucher disease). Velaglucerase replaces a certain natural substance (an enzyme called glucocerebrosidase) that is missing in people with Gaucher disease.
This medication improves blood, bone, liver, and spleen problems caused by Gaucher disease. Velaglucerase does not correct the genetic problem, and treatment must be continued for life.
How To Use velaglucerase alfa IV
This medication is given slowly, usually over 1 hour, into a vein by a health care professional as directed by your doctor, usually every 2 weeks. Your dose and how often it is given depends on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.
Velaglucerase may infrequently cause side effects (such as headache, dizziness, fainting, weakness/tiredness, nausea, high fever) while it is being given. Your doctor may decide to temporarily stop or slow down the medication infusion if this happens. Tell your healthcare professional right away if you have any of these symptoms during your treatment. Your doctor may direct you to take other medications (such as antihistamines, drugs for fever, or corticosteroids such as prednisone) before your treatment to prevent these reactions from happening again.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. Blood, liver, and spleen problems usually improve in the first year of treatment. It may take 2 to 3 years of treatment to see the full benefit to your bones.
