Velaglucerase alfa (Injection)

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Introduction

Velaglucerase Alfa (vel-a-GLOO-ser-ase AL-fa)

Treats type 1 Gaucher's disease.

Brand Name(s)

VPRIV

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• You or your child may also receive medicines to help prevent unwanted effects from the injection.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you or your child have had an allergic reaction to other medicines used for Gaucher's disease.
• If you or your child develop a skin rash, hives, or any allergic reaction to this medicine, check with your doctor as soon as possible.
• This medicine may cause a rare but serious type of an allergic reaction called an infusion reaction. This can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you or your child start to have a cough, difficulty with swallowing, dizziness, fast heartbeat, headaches, wheezing, trouble with breathing, chest tightness, swelling in your face or hands, fever, chills, itching or hives, nausea, unusual tiredness or weakness, or lightheadedness or faintness while you are receiving this medicine.
• Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Bone pain.
• Fast, slow, pounding, or uneven heartbeat.
• Fever, chills, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and body aches.
• Lightheadedness or fainting.
• Unusual tiredness or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Back or joint pain.
• Headache or dizziness.
• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain.
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
• Skin rash.
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.