Hylenex (hyaluronidase) is a genetically designed protein.
Hylenex is used as an aid in helping your body absorb other injected medications.
It is also used to help contrast dyes in your body show more clearly on certain types of x-rays or scans.
Hylenex may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
You should not receive Hylenex if you are allergic to hyaluronidase.
Your doctor may perform a skin test to see if you are allergic to hyaluronidase before you receive Hylenex.
Before receiving Hylenex, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs: furosemide (Lasix); phenytoin (Dilantin); a sedative or anxiety medication (such as Valium, Xanax, Tranxene); aspirin or salicylates; cortisone or ACTH (Corticotropin); estrogens; or an antihistamine (such as a cold or allergy medicine).
Before receiving Hylenex
Your doctor may perform a skin test to see if you are allergic to hyaluronidase before you receive Hylenex.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Hylenex will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether hyaluronidase passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use Hylenex without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
How should I use Hylenex?
Hylenex is injected under the skin. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your Hylenex injection.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid?
Follow your doctor"s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are using Hylenex.
Hylenex side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Hylenex: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious Hylenex side effects may include pain, itching, redness, or swelling where the medication was injected.
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.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Hylenex?
Before receiving Hylenex, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:
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furosemide (Lasix);
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phenytoin (Dilantin);
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a sedative or anxiety medication (such as Valium, Xanax, Tranxene);
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aspirin or salicylates;
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cortisone or ACTH (Corticotropin);
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estrogens; or
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an antihistamine (such as a cold or allergy medicine).
This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with Hylenex. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
