Alglucosidase alfa injection

What is this medicine?

ALGLUCOSIDASE ALFA (al glu KO si das AL fa) is a drug that is used to replace an enzyme that is missing in patients with Pompe disease. It is not a cure.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 1 month of age, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• blue color to lips, nailbeds

• breathing problems

• chest pain, tightness

• cold sweat

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• fever or other signs of infection

• flushed or pale skin

• unusually high or low blood pressure

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• headache

• irritable

• irritation at site where injected

• nausea

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• heart problems

• lung or breathing disease

• an unusual reaction to alglucosidase alfa, mannitol, hamster or mouse proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine. Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

You can be a part of a registry for patients with Pompe disease. This registry may ask for information over a long time. Ask your healthcare professional for more information.