Glatiramer acetate: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use

Use

What is Glatiramer Acetate for?

This medication is used to treat a type of multiple sclerosis that occurs when symptoms appear in cycles of worsening and getting better. This is a protein that is thought to work by preventing the immune system from attacking the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This effect can decrease the number of periods of disease worsening (relapses) and prevent or delay disability. These drugs are known as immunomodulators. This is not a drug to treat multiple sclerosis.

What are the rules for using Glatiramer Acetate?

This medication is given by injection under the skin as directed by your doctor. This drug is available in 2 different doses. Depending on the dose, it is usually given once a day or 3 times a week at least 48 hours apart. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully on how often you should use this medicine. If you are using this medication at home, learn all the preparation and use instructions from your doctor.

Wash and dry hands before injecting glatiramer. Before using, warm the medicine if it has cooled and keep the syringe at room temperature for 20 minutes. Do not inject cold glatiramer as this can be painful. This medicine is usually clear and does not have a slightly yellow color. Before using, inspect this product visually for particles or discoloration. If it changes then don't use the liquid.

Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with alcohol. It is important to change the injection site every day to prevent problems in the subcutaneous area. Check the injection and do not re-inject it into the same injection area for at least 1 week. Inject the drug under the skin of the hips, thighs, stomach, buttocks, or back of the upper arm. Do not inject into a vein. After pulling the needle out, apply gentle pressure to the injection site. Don't scrub. Discard unused part of injection after use. Don't save it for later.

Use this medicine regularly for optimal benefits. To help you remember take this medication at the same time each day. Do not stop using this medication before consulting a doctor.

Learn how to safely dispose of needles and medical equipment.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.

How to store Glatiramer Acetate?

This medication is best stored at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Dose

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the dosage of Glatiramer Acetate for adults?

20 mg subcutaneously once a day or 40 mg subcutaneously three times a week.

What is the dosage of Glatiramer Acetate for children?

There is no prescribed dosage for this drug for children. This medicine can be dangerous for children. It is important to understand the safety of drugs before use. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

In what dosage and preparation is Glatiramer Acetate available?

This drug is available in the following dosages:

Solution, Injection: 20 mg / mL

Side effects

What side effects may occur due to Glatiramer Acetate?

Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using glatiramer and call your doctor if you have serious side effects such as:

• Chest pain
• Severe rash or skin irritation
• Dizziness, sweating, difficulty breathing
• Pounding heartbeat
• Or severe pain where the injection was given

Less severe side effects include:

• Redness, minor pain, itching, swelling, or a hard lump where the injection was given
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or a tingling feeling)
• Double vision
• Nausea, vomiting, increased urge to urinate or have a bowel movement
• Weakness, back pain
• Cold
• Swelling in the hands or feet
• Itching or discharge from the vagina
• Fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, sore throat
• Or white patches or sores inside your mouth or lips.

Not everyone experiences this side effect. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions & Warnings

What should be known before using Glatiramer Acetate?

Before taking glatiramer,

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to glatiramer, mannitol, or any other medication
• Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are using. Your doctor may need to change the dose of your medication or monitor you carefully for side effects.
• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using glatiramer, contact your doctor.
• You should know that you may have a reaction after you inject the glatiramer. You may experience the following symptoms: burning sensation, chest pain, pounding heartbeat, anxiety, difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, and hives. This reaction is most likely to occur within a few months of your treatment, but can occur at any time. These symptoms usually go away without treatment in a short time. Get emergency medical care if these symptoms become severe or last longer than a few minutes. It is important to tell your doctor if this occurs.

Is Glatiramer Acetate safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or nursing women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category X according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The following references the pregnancy risk categories according to the FDA:

• A = No risk,
• B = not at risk in several studies,
• C = May be risky,
• D = There is positive evidence of risk,
• X = Contraindicated,
• N = Unknown

Interaction

What medicines may interact with Glatiramer Acetate?

Interactions with other drugs can affect how the drug works and increase the risk of dangerous side effects. This article does not list all possible drug interactions. Record all medicinal products you use (including prescription, non-prescription and herbal medicines) and show them to your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine without your doctor's permission.

Can food or alcohol interact with Glatiramer Acetate?

Certain drugs should not be used with meals or when eating certain foods because drug interactions can occur. Consuming alcohol or tobacco with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur. Discuss your use of drugs with food, alcohol, or tobacco with your health care provider.

What health conditions may interact with Glatiramer Acetate?

Any other health conditions you have can affect the use of this drug. Always tell your doctor if you have other health problems, especially:

• Allergy to mannitol - should not be used in patients with this condition.
• Infection - this medication may decrease your body's ability to fight infection.

Overdose

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (112) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.