Have you been prescribed Voxelotor (Oxbryta)? Know these important facts

Have you or someone you know been prescribed a medication called Voxelotor (also known as Oxbryta) by your doctor because you or someone you know has sickle cell disease? If so, this article will be very important to you. Today, we will simply talk about the latest information about this medication, as well as things to be aware of when using it. Think of it like a conversation you are having with a friend.

Simply put, what is Voxelotor?

Voxelotor is a medicine given to people with sickle cell disease. This disease causes the red blood cells in our blood to change shape and become sickle-shaped. Then the cells stick together and can block blood vessels. This medicine stops the sickle-shaped shape and helps the red blood cells maintain their flexible, round shape. It also reduces the rate at which red blood cells break down.

However, there is a special and very important thing you need to know here.

So, if you are already taking this medication, don't panic . The best thing you can do is to see your doctor right away and talk about it . He or she can help you find other treatment options that are right for you and help you switch to them.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is very important for your doctor to know your complete health history before prescribing this medication. So be sure to tell them if you have any of the following conditions:

• If you have liver disease.
• If you have previously had an allergic reaction to Voxelotor or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

Based on this information, the doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment for you.

How should I use the medicine?

Knowing how to use a medicine correctly has a huge impact on results.

• You should take this pill with water.
• Try to take it at the same time every day, exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole.
• You can take it before or after meals, but if you feel an upset stomach, it's best to take it with food.
• Continue using this medication until your doctor tells you to stop. (But because of the FDA decision we mentioned earlier, talk to your doctor about this as soon as possible.)

If you give this medicine to small children...

This medicine can be prescribed to children over 4 years of age in some cases. However, this should be decided by a pediatrician. Therefore, if this medicine is given to a child, the doctor's instructions should be followed very strictly.

What to do if you take too much medicine?

Imagine you accidentally took too many pills. If that happens , don't delay.

Also, remember, this medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never give your medicine to anyone else.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

Sometimes we forget to take our medicine. If you miss a dose, don't worry about it. Just skip it and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Don't take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)

Some medications can interact with each other when taken together. The following medications should never be taken with Voxelotor.

• Flibanserin
• Lomitapide
• Lonafarnib

There may be other medications as well, so give your doctor a complete list of all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements) . He or she can then decide if you need to make any changes to your treatment plan to minimize any unwanted effects.

Side effects that may occur due to medication

As with any medication, there is a possibility of side effects. Let's clearly distinguish what they are.

If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.

How do you keep your medicine safe?

To maintain the quality of medicines, they must be stored properly.

• Keep out of reach of children and pets .
• It is best to keep it at a temperature between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius (20-30°C). That is, normal room temperature.
• Never use expired medicine.

How do you get rid of unused medicine?

It's not a good idea to just throw expired or unwanted medications in the trash. The best thing you can do is ask your doctor about it. Sometimes they recommend mixing the pills with something like coffee grounds or soil, putting them in a sealable bag, and throwing them in the trash. But before you do anything, it's always best to get medical advice.