vitrase

Vitrase is a preparation of highly purified ovine testicular hyaluronidase, a protein enzyme. The exact chemical structure of this enzyme is unknown.

Vitrase (hyaluronidase) is used as an aid to increase the absorption and distribution of other injected medications in the body.

Vitrase is also used to help contrast dyes in your body show more clearly on certain types of x-rays or scans.

Important information

Your doctor may perform a skin test to see if you are allergic to hyaluronidase before you receive Vitrase.

Before receiving Vitrase, 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 Vitrase

You should not receive Vitrase if you are allergic to hyaluronidase.

Your doctor may perform a skin test to see if you are allergic to hyaluronidase before you receive Vitrase.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Vitrase 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 Vitrase without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)

How should I use Vitrase?

Vitrase 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 Vitrase 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 Vitrase.

Vitrase side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Vitrase: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious Vitrase 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 Vitrase?

Before receiving Vitrase, 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).

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with Vitrase. 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.