Sometimes we hear about diseases that are very rare, meaning that most people don't get them. Some of these are caused by certain defects in our body, that is, those that are present at birth. Today we are talking about a special vaccine that is used to treat such a rare disease. Its name is Elapegademase.
What kind of medicine is this? Why is this being given?
Simply put, Elapegademase is an injection that externally delivers an enzyme that our bodies cannot do without. Some people, especially infants, are born with a deficiency of an enzyme called Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) . This enzyme is essential for our body's immune system, the defense system that protects us from disease, to function properly.
When this ADA enzyme is missing, the body's immune system is almost completely weakened. We call this condition Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease (SCID) . This is a very serious condition. Because the body's defense system is missing, even a cold or cough that would be easily cured in a normal person can be fatal for such a person.
So, what this vaccine called Elapegademase does is give the body the deficient ADA enzyme. It's like replenishing something that's been lost. This vaccine can also be called REVCOVI in the market.
It is important to remember that this is not a cure for the disease. It is a treatment that protects the patient's life and provides the immunity needed to live a normal life.
What should I tell the doctor before taking this medicine?
Before you or your child starts this vaccine, it is very important to tell your doctor about your complete health history. Be sure to tell them if you have any of the conditions listed below.
- Bleeding disorders: If you have blood clotting problems, or if you have a tendency to bleed uncontrollably even from a small cut.
- Current infections: If you currently have any infection such as fever, cold, cough.
- Low blood platelet counts: If you have been diagnosed with low platelet counts in your blood in previous reports.
- Allergies: If you are allergic to any medicine, food, or dye, not just this medicine called Elapegademase.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or are expecting to become pregnant in the near future.
- Breastfeeding: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding your child.
Based on this information, the doctor will plan the treatment that best suits you.
How should I use this medicine?
This vaccine is usually given as an injection into a muscle . This is often done in a hospital or clinic by a trained healthcare professional.
However, in some cases, for the patient's convenience, you or a caregiver may be instructed to administer the vaccine at home. In this case, it is very important to administer the vaccine exactly as instructed, at the exact time, and in the exact dose . Do not administer more doses or more frequently than your doctor tells you to.
What do you do with used needles?
This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash . They can be very harmful to others. There is a special sharps container for these. If you don't have one, you can get one from your doctor.
When to give this medicine to children?
Since this condition is most common in young children and newborns, this vaccine is also recommended for those age groups. However, special precautions should be taken when giving it to children. Therefore, follow the instructions of your child's doctor exactly.
What if the dose increases (overdose)?
If you think you have taken an overdose, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this vaccine can cause some side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Some of these are serious, while others are common. It is important to be aware of these.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| If you have these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
| Serious Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Signs of Infection | Fever, chills, sore throat, pain when urinating. |
| Anemia | Feeling unusually tired, feeling weak, fainting, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. |
| If these persist or become bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Cough | Having a persistent cough. |
| Vomiting | Vomiting. |
| Pain at the injection site | Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything different, talk to your doctor about it.
How to store the medicine?
If you are using this vaccine at home, it is very important to store it correctly.
- Keep it in a safe place out of the reach of children .
- Store in the fridge at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C .
- Do not freeze the medicine for any reason. Doing so will destroy the effectiveness of the medicine.
- Discard any medication that has passed its expiration date without using it.
Take-Home Message
- Elapegademase is a vaccine for severe combined immunodeficiency syndrome (SCID), a disease caused by a deficiency of the enzyme ADA. This is a life-saving treatment that controls the disease rather than curing it.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, allergies, and other medications you are taking.
- Take the medicine at the right time, in the right dosage. If you miss a dose, call your doctor immediately.
- If you experience any symptoms such as a serious allergic reaction, infection, or extreme fatigue, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you are using medicine at home, store it properly in the refrigerator. Never mix the amounts.
- If you have any questions about this medicine, don't be afraid to ask your doctor.
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