What is pegloticase?
Pegloticase is an enzyme that metabolizes uric acid into a harmless chemical that is eliminated from the body in urine.
Pegloticase is used to treat chronic gout. Pegloticase is usually given after other gout medications have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.
Pegloticase may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
How should I take pegloticase?
Pegloticase is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. Pegloticase must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take at least 2 hours to complete.
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You may be given other medications to prevent certain side effects of pegloticase. You may need to start taking these medications at least a week before you receive your pegloticase injection. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each medication. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor's advice. |
Pegloticase is usually given once every 2 weeks. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
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When you first start using pegloticase, you may have an increase in gout flares. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 months of treatment. |
Your doctor may recommend other gout medications during the first 6 months of your treatment with pegloticase.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested often. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with pegloticase. Visit your doctor regularly.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since pegloticase is given by a healthcare professional, you are not likely to miss a dose.
What happens if I overdose?
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Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. |
What should I avoid while taking pegloticase?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
What are the possible side effects of pegloticase?
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Some people receiving a pegloticase injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Infusion reactions may also occur after the injection is given. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel itchy, nervous, light-headed, short of breath, or have a fast heartbeat, chest discomfort, or redness of your skin during the injection. |
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Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; wheezing, difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. |
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Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as: |
- chest pain; or
- flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).
Less serious side effects may include:
- new gout flares;
- nausea, vomiting, constipation;
- easy bruising; or
- stuffy nose, sore throat.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect pegloticase?
There may be other drugs that can interact with pegloticase. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist can provide more information about pegloticase.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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