What is Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
Laronidase is used to treat some of the symptoms of a genetic condition called Hurler syndrome. Hurler syndrome is also called mucopolysaccharidosis (MYOO-koe-pol-ee-SAK-a-rye-DOE-sis).
Hurler syndrome is a metabolic disorder in which the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down certain sugars and proteins. These substances can build up in the body, causing enlarged organs, abnormal bone structure, changes in facial features, breathing problems, heart problems, vision or hearing loss, and changes in mental or physical abilities.
Laronidase may improve breathing and walking ability in people with this condition. However, this medication is not a cure for Hurler syndrome.
Laronidase may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
Laronidase may improve breathing and walking ability in people with Hurler syndrome. However, laronidase is not a cure for this condition.
Some people receiving a laronidase injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you have a headache, skin rash or itching, warmth or tingly feeling, or trouble breathing when laronidase is injected.
Your name may need to be listed on a patient registry while you are using this medication. The purpose of this registry is to track the progression of this disorder and the effects that laronidase has on long-term treatment of Hurler syndrome.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to laronidase.
Before using laronidase, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs.
Your name may need to be listed on a patient registry while you are using this medication. The purpose of this registry is to track the progression of this disorder and the effects that laronidase has on long-term treatment of Hurler syndrome.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether laronidase passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Aldurazyme Side Effects
What are the possible side effects of Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Some people receiving a laronidase injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you have a headache, skin rash or itching, warmth or tingly feeling, or trouble breathing when laronidase is injected.
Less serious side effects may include:
- runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough
- mild skin rash
- numbness or tingling; or
- pain, redness, swelling, or other irritation where the medicine was injected
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Aldurazyme Interactions
What other drugs affect Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
There may be other drugs that can interact with laronidase. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
Follow your doctor’s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are receiving laronidase.
Aldurazyme Dosage
How should I take Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
Laronidase is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will most likely receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. Laronidase is usually given once per week.
The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take up to 4 hours to complete.
Your doctor may also prescribe other medications to help prevent an allergic reaction to laronidase. Take all of your medications as directed.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition and not causing harmful effects, your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
What happens if I overdose on Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have received too much of this medicine.
Symptoms of a laronidase overdose are not known.
What happens if I miss a dose of Aldurazyme (Laronidase)?
Contact your doctor if you miss an appointment for your laronidase injection.
Edited from everydayhealth.com