uses
What is Vpriv used for?Vpriv (velaglucerase alfa) is commonly used to treat type 1 Gaucher disease. Gaucher disease is a rare genetic condition that can cause symptoms such as weak bones, tiredness, and easy bruising. There are three main types of Gaucher disease, and type 1 is the most common.Vpriv may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.How does Vpriv work (mechanism of action)?People with Gaucher disease do not have enough of an enzyme called glucocerebrosidase, which helps break down a fatty substance in the body called glucocerebroside. This causes a buildup of glucocerebroside, especially in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Vpriv is an enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). It works by replacing this enzyme, which helps break down glucocerebroside in the body.How is Vpriv supplied (dosage forms)?Brands and other namesVprivDosage forms and strengthsVpriv is available in an injectable form that is given by a health care provider.How should I store Vpriv?Vpriv is usually given by a health care provider in a hospital or clinic. You will not store it at home.
how to use
liquid that is injected into a blood vessel
drug interactions
Does Vpriv interact with foods or drinks?There are no known interactions between Vpriv and foods or drinks.It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Vpriv. The risk of dizziness or other side effects may be increased if you drink alcohol while using Vpriv.Does Vpriv interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?There are no known interactions between Vpriv and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
side effects
What are the most common side effects of Vpriv?The most common side effects of Vpriv are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.Allergic reactions, including severe allergic reactions (see below)HeadacheDizzinessStomach, back, or joint painNauseaFeeling unusually weak or tiredProlonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) test, which means your blood may take longer to clotFeverThere may be other side effects of Vpriv that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.What are the serious side effects of Vpriv?While less common, the most serious side effects of Vpriv are described below, along with what to do if they happen.Severe Allergic Reactions. Vpriv may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Allergic reactions can happen at any time during treatment with Vpriv, including early in treatment or after you have already had many doses. Get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.Breathing problems or wheezingRacing heart or chest discomfortFever or general ill feelingSwollen lymph nodesSwelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throatTrouble swallowing or throat tightnessItching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hivesNausea or vomitingDizziness, feeling lightheaded, or faintingStomach crampsHeadache or joint painFeeling unusually weak or tired
overdose and misseddose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much Vpriv?If you or someone else has used too much Vpriv, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.What should I do if I miss a dose of Vpriv?Vpriv is usually given by a health care provider in a hospital or clinic. Your health care provider will tell you when to schedule your appointments for infusions. If you miss an appointment to get your Vpriv infusion, call to make another appointment as soon as possible.
warnings and Precautions
Who should not use Vpriv?Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should talk to their health care provider before using Vpriv.Velaglucerase alfaVprivAny of the ingredients in the specific product receivedYour health care provider can tell you all of the ingredients in Vpriv.What should I know about Vpriv before using it?Vpriv is given as an infusion into a vein (IV) by a health care provider in a health care setting. You will be closely monitored during your infusion. Keep all appointments for infusions, follow up, and blood work. Your health care provider may prescribe other medicines for you to take before each dose of Vpriv. Follow all instructions closely to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.Vpriv can affect your alertness or coordination. Do not drive or do other activities that require alertness or coordination until you know how Vpriv affects you.What should I tell my health care provider before using Vpriv?Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if Vpriv is right for you.In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.Pregnancy. It is not known if or how Vpriv could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use Vpriv while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.Breastfeeding. It is not known if Vpriv passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use Vpriv while breastfeeding.How can I get more information about Vpriv?For more information about Vpriv, you can visit the drugmaker’s website at www.vpriv.com or call them at 800-828-2088.
about
Vpriv is used to treat type 1 Gaucher disease. It works by replacing an enzyme that helps break down a substance in the body called glucocerebroside. Common side effects include allergic reactions, headache, dizziness, nausea, and stomach, back, or joint pain. Serious side effects may include severe allergic reactions. Vpriv is given as an infusion into a vein (IV) by a health care provider.Â