Idursulfase, Injection

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: enzyme replacement therapy

Generic and brand names: idursulfase, injection; Elaprase

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is given by IV infusion (slow drip through a needle into a large vein) to treat the symptoms of Hunter syndrome (Mucopolysaccharidosis II, MPS II). This treatment is called long-term enzyme replacement therapy.

What should my healthcare provider know before I take this medicine?

Before taking this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to any medicine
• breathing problems or lung disease.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.

How should I use it?

The infusions are given by your healthcare provider. How much medicine you need and how often you receive it depends on how severe the disease is and how you respond to the medicine. Keep all your appointments for the injections.

What should I watch out for?

This medicine will not cure your disease but will help control it. You may need to take this medicine for the rest of your life.

This medicine is made from human tissue. It is tested for viruses such as hepatitis and HIV. The risk of getting an infection from this medicine is very low, but it is still possible. Talk with your healthcare provider about this.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away. If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat); seizures.

Serious: Fast or irregular heartbeat; chest pain; fever, sore throat or any other signs of infection.

Other: Discomfort, burning, and swelling at the spot where injections are given; slight fever or chills; headache; joint or muscle pain; dizziness; nervousness; itching; tiredness; blurred vision.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant interactions have been reported.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.