VPRIV (velaglucerase alfa) is a man-made form of an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body. It is used as an enzyme replacement in people with Type I Gaucher disease.
Gaucher disease is a genetic condition in which the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down certain fatty materials (lipids). Lipids can build up in the body, causing symptoms such as easy bruising or bleeding, weakness, anemia, bone or joint pain, enlarged liver or spleen, or weakened bones that are easily fractured.
VPRIV may improve the condition of the liver, spleen, bones, and blood cells in people with Type I Gaucher disease. However, VPRIV is not a cure for this condition.
VPRIV may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
You should not use VPRIV if you are allergic to velaglucerase alfa. Some people receiving a VPRIV injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Most infusion reactions have been mild. However, tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, sweaty, itchy, short of breath, or have a fast heartbeat, chest tightness, or trouble breathing during the injection. VPRIV is not a cure for Gaucher disease.
Before receiving VPRIV
You should not use VPRIV if you are allergic to velaglucerase alfa.
FDA pregnancy category B. VPRIV is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether velaglucerase alfa passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use VPRIV without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
How is VPRIV given?
VPRIV is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. VPRIV must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take at least 1 hour to complete.
VPRIV is usually given every other week. Follow your doctor"s dosing instructions very carefully.
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your VPRIV 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.
VPRIV side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to VPRIV: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Some people receiving a VPRIV injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Most infusion reactions have been mild. However, tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, sweaty, itchy, short of breath, or have a fast heartbeat, chest tightness, or trouble breathing during the injection.
Less serious VPRIV side effects may include:
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headache;
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low fever;
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dizziness, tired feeling;
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nausea, stomach pain;
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knee pain, back pain; or
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cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, 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.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect VPRIV?
There may be other drugs that can interact with VPRIV. 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.
