pegademase bovine

What is the most important information I should know about pegademase bovine?

What is pegademase bovine?

Pegademase bovine is a man-made form of an enzyme called adenosine deaminase (ADA). ADA is important in the body for preventing the buildup of certain proteins harmful to the white blood cells that help your body fight infections.

Pegademase bovine is used to replace ADA in people with severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID).

Pegademase bovine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using pegademase bovine?

• severe thrombocytopenia (low levels of platelets in blood).

To make sure pegademase bovine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• easy bruising or bleeding.

How should I use pegademase bovine?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Pegademase bovine is injected into a muscle. You may be shown how to use injections at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles and syringes.

Pegademase bovine is usually given once every 7 days. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Use a disposable needle and syringe only once. Follow any state or local laws about throwing away used needles and syringes. Use a puncture-proof "sharps" disposal container (ask your pharmacist where to get one and how to throw it away). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

Each single-use vial (bottle) of this medicine is for one use only. Throw away after one use, even if there is still some medicine left in it after injecting your dose.

Do not use pegademase bovine if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medication.

While using pegademase bovine, your blood will need to be tested often.

It may take up to 6 months before your immune system improves and you have fewer infections. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of pegademase bovine.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while using pegademase bovine?

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

What are the possible side effects of pegademase bovine?

• easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin;
• pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, fever, confusion or weakness; or
• signs of infection --fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, flu symptoms, skin sores or swelling.

Common side effects may include:

• headache; or
• redness or itching where the medicine 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.

What other drugs will affect pegademase bovine?

Other drugs may interact with pegademase bovine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about pegademase bovine.