Glatiramer injection

What is this medicine?

GLATIRAMER (gla TIR a mer) helps to decrease the number of multiple sclerosis relapses in people with relapsing-remitting forms of the disease. The medicine does not cure multiple sclerosis.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

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

• breathing problems

• change in the skin due to overuse of a particular injection site

• chest pain or tightness

• fast heartbeat

• severe pain at the injection site

• signs and symptoms of liver injury like dark yellow or brown urine; general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms; light-colored stools; loss of appetite; nausea; right upper belly pain; unusually weak or tired; yellowing of the eyes or skin

• swelling of the ankles, feet, hands

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

• anxious

• facial flushing

• nausea, vomiting

• pain, redness or irritation at site where injected

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). An unused prefilled syringe may be stored for up to 7 days between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Throw away any unused diluted injection. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

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

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

• immune system problems

• infection

• an unusual or allergic reaction to glatiramer, mannitol, 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 or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.