Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PEGVISOMANT - INJECTION

(peg-VIH-so-mant)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Somavert

Uses

This medication is used for the treatment of acromegaly if you have not had an adequate response to other treatments (e.g., surgery, radiation). Pegvisomant belongs to a class of medications known as growth hormone receptor antagonists. This medicine is a protein designed to reduce the action of human growth hormone (HGH). HGH increases the production of additional chemicals (e.g., IGF-1) in the body that are thought to cause the symptoms associated with acromegaly. Pegvisomant helps decrease the blood levels of IGF-1 and other related proteins.

How To Use

Read the manufacturer's patient instructions provided in the package for information on how to properly prepare and inject this medicine. If any of this information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not shake the vial when preparing the medication; gently roll it back and forth in your palms to dissolve the powder. Before injecting this medication, visually inspect it for any particles or discoloration. The liquid should be clear after mixing. If the liquid is cloudy, discolored, or has any particles in it, do not use it. The first dose is usually given in the doctor's office. You will be instructed by a healthcare professional how to give your injections at home after this. Be sure to ask any questions that you may have regarding pegvisomant use. Inject this medication under the skin (subcutaneously) usually once daily into the upper arm, upper thigh, stomach area, or buttock as directed by your doctor. The maximum regular daily dose should not exceed 30 milligrams.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Inject the medication into a different area each time. Choose areas that are not bruised, lumpy, or irritated in any way. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Side Effects

Pain/redness/itching at the injection site, diarrhea, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of the following serious side effects occur: signs of injection site infection (e.g., oozing, warmth, or persistent pain and redness), flu-like symptoms (e.g., chills, fever, muscle aches, weakness), swelling of the hands/feet/ankles, persistent headache, chest pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but very serious side effects occur: stomach pain, yellowing of eyes and skin, dark urine, fever, unusual fatigue. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: tumors/growths, diabetes, liver disease, regular or excessive alcohol use, any allergies (including latex). Pegvisomant should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: Narcotic pain medicines (opioids such as codeine, hydrocodone, morphine), Insulin and any other diabetes medications. This medication may interfere with certain lab test results (e.g., GH levels). Make sure laboratory personnel and your doctors know that you use this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include an increase in symptoms of fatigue.

Notes

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., liver function tests, IGF-1 levels) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details. Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store unmixed drug in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C). Do not freeze. Inject mixed bag immediately. If you are unable to use right away, the mixed drug may be kept at room temperature but should be used within 6 hours. After use, discard any unused portion left in the vial. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.