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Hylenex

Generic name: hyaluronidase (injection)

Brand names: Amphadase, Hylenex

Used for dehydration
Last updated October 1, 2023 0 views Reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm
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What is Hylenex?

Hylenex is a genetically designed protein.

Hylenex is used together with fluids injected into the body to treat dehydration. Hyaluronidase can also be used as an aid in helping your body absorb other injected medications.

Hylenex is also used to help contrast dyes in your body show more clearly on certain types of x-rays or scans.

Warnings

Serious drug interactions can occur when certain medicines are used together with Hylenex. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines.

Before receiving Hylenex, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs: furosemide (Lasix); phenytoin (Dilantin); a sedative or anxiety medication (such as Valium, Xanax, Tranxene); aspirin or salicylates; cortisone or ACTH (Corticotropin); estrogens; or an antihistamine (such as a cold or allergy medicine).

Your doctor may perform a skin test before using Hylenex to see if you are allergic to hyaluronidase.

Before receiving this medicine

You should not be treated with Hylenex if you are allergic to hyaluronidase.

Your doctor may perform a skin test to see if you are allergic to hyaluronidase before you receive the medication.

Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with Hylenex. Your doctor may need to change your treatment plan if you use any of the following drugs:

  • furosemide (Lasix);
  • phenytoin (Dilantin);
  • a sedative or anxiety medication (such as diazepam, lorazepam, alprazolam, Valium, Xanax, Ativan, Tranxene, and others);
  • aspirin or salicylates;
  • cortisone or ACTH (Corticotropin);
  • estrogens; or
  • an antihistamine (such as a cold or allergy medicine).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It may not be safe to breast-feed while using Hylenex. Ask your doctor about any risk.

Hylenex side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction ro Hylenex: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you experience any of the following common Hylenex side effects:

  • swelling in your hands, feet, or other body areas; or
  • pain, swelling, itching, or redness where the injection was given.

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.

How is Hylenex given?

Hylenex is injected under the skin, into a muscle, or into other tissues of the body.

A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Hylenex should not be injected into a vein (as an intravenous injection).

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because you will receive Hylenex in a clinical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect Hylenex?

Other drugs may interact with hyaluronidase, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Frequently asked questions

  • Do Herceptin (trastuzumab) injections hurt?

Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
General medicine information Consumer-friendly language Source: Drugs.com

Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer. Source page medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm on October 1, 2023.