Olipudase alfa is used to treat acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (a rare inherited disorder that results from deficiency in enzyme called acid sphingomyelinase, leading to a build-up of sphingomyelin that can damage the spleen, liver, heart, lungs and blood).
Olipudase alfa injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein). It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on your condition and response to the medication.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Olipudase alfa.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
Do not use Olipudase alfa if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to or any of its ingredients.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
It is important that you do not get pregnant while using Olipudase alfa. You must use proven birth control methods during Olipudase alfa therapy and for at least 14 days after stopping the treatment. You may wish to discuss birth control methods with your doctor.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Olipudase alfa to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Pregnancy tests must be done before treatment to know if this medicine is suited for you to use.
- Routine tests (e.g. liver function) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- Regular monitoring for signs of infusion reactions may also be needed.
Olipudase alfa may cause low blood pressure. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, eye discomfort, headache, itchiness, and hot flush.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, dark coloured urine, tiredness, swelling in the legs and ankles
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C.
Do not freeze Olipudase alfa otherwise, it will no longer be effective and should not be used.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.