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Kanuma
Generic name: sebelipase alfa
What is Kanuma?
Kanuma is a synthetic version of an enzyme that is usually made in the body to help break down fats and prevent them from accumulating in your cells.
Kanuma is used to treat lysosomal acid lipase deficiency. This is a serious genetic disorder that can harm major organs and cause early death. This medicine provides the enzyme that your body lacks.
Kanuma may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package.
Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with Kanuma if you are allergic to it.
To make sure Kanuma is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
- an allergy to eggs or egg products.
It is not known whether Kanuma will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether sebelipase alfa passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Kanuma is not approved for use by anyone younger than 1 month old.
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Kanuma side effects
Get emergency medical help if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Some side effects may happen during the injection. Tell your caregiver immediately if you feel itchy, flushed, chilled, or feverish, or if you have a runny nose, eye irritation, diarrhea, chest discomfort, or trouble breathing.
Kanuma may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:
- severe skin rash, itching, or swelling;
- agitation, irritability;
- stomach pain; or
- low red blood cells (anemia)--pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating.
Common side effects of Kanuma may include:
- fever, weakness;
- runny nose, sinus pain, sore throat, cough;
- rash;
- diarrhea, constipation;
- nausea, vomiting; or
- headache.
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.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How is Kanuma given?
Kanuma is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Kanuma is usually given once every other week. The IV infusion must be given slowly and can take 1 to 2 hours to complete.
You will be watched closely during and after receiving Kanuma, to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction to the medication.
Tell your doctor if you have any changes in weight. Kanuma doses are based on weight (especially in children), and any changes may affect the dose.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your Kanuma.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
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.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Kanuma?
Other drugs may interact with sebelipase alfa, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform all of your health care providers about all medicines you are currently using and any medicine you begin or discontinue.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.