What is Adagen (Pegademase Bovine)?

Pegademase bovine is the enzyme called adenosine deaminase (ADA). Without ADA, certain proteins accumulate that harm white blood cells. White blood cells are important for protecting the body from infection.

Pegademase bovine is used to replenish ADA which allows an increase in white blood cells and decreases the risk of infection in conditions such as severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID).

Pegademase bovine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Adagen (Pegademase Bovine)?

Before using pegademase bovine, tell your doctor if you

• are undergoing radiation or receiving chemotherapy; or
• have a bleeding disorder

You may not be able to use pegademase bovine or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Pegademase bovine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether pegademase bovine will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use pegademase bovine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether pegademase bovine will be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not use pegademase bovine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Adagen Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Adagen (Pegademase Bovine)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using the pegademase bovine and seek emergency medical treatment or contact your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
• signs of infection such as sore throat, fever or congestion

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use the pegademase bovine and talk to your doctor if you experience:

• headache
• swelling, redness, or pain at the injection site

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. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Adagen Interactions

What other drugs affect Adagen (Pegademase Bovine)?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you

• are receiving vidarabine eye ointment (Vira-A)

You may not be able to use the pegademase bovine or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking the medication listed above.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with pegademase bovine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

What should I avoid while taking Adagen (Pegademase Bovine)?

There are no restrictions regarding foods, beverages, or activities during treatment with pegademase bovine unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Adagen Dosage

How should I take Adagen (Pegademase Bovine)?

Use pegademase bovine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Pegademase bovine is given by intramuscular (IM) injection. Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist will give you specific instructions on how and where to inject the medication.

Do not administer an injection if you are unsure how to properly do so, how much to inject, or how often to inject the medication. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to go over the instructions with you.

Pegademase bovine is usually administered once every 7 days.

Do not inject a pegademase bovine that is discolored or that has particles in it.

Properly store and discard all syringes and needles.

Your doctor may want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests while using pegademase bovine to monitor effectiveness and possible side effects of the medication.

Do not stop taking pegademase bovine without talking to your doctor. It may take several weeks to 6 months to be fully effective. Stopping pegademase bovine may cause your immune system to become less effective and serious infections may occur.

Store pegademase bovine in the refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit) away from light, moisture, and the reach of children. Avoid freezing the medication. Do not use this product if there are any indications that it may have frozen.

What happens if I overdose on Adagen (Pegademase Bovine)?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a pegademase bovine overdose are not known.

What happens if I miss a dose of Adagen (Pegademase Bovine)?

Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you miss a dose of this medication.

Edited from everydayhealth.com