Pegvisomant injection

July 17, 2018

Pegvisomant injection

What is this medicine?

PEGVISOMANT (peg VI soe mant) blocks growth hormone. It is used to treat acromegaly, a condition where the body makes too much growth hormone.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not shake this medicine. Use solution within 6 hours of mixing. 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.

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

  • chest pain

  • dark urine

  • high blood pressure

  • general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms

  • loss of appetite

  • right upper belly pain

  • light-colored stools

  • nausea

  • retaining water or swelling

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • unusually weak or tired

  • yellowing of eyes or skin

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

  • bone or muscle pain

  • diarrhea

  • dizziness

  • irritation or pain at site where injected

  • pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet

What may interact with this medicine?

  • medicines for diabetes

  • narcotic medicines for pain

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use 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). Do not freeze. Throw away any solution that is unused 6 hours after mixing. 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:

  • cancer or tumor

  • diabetes

  • liver disease

  • an allergic or unusual reaction to pegvisomant, 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 will need important blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018