When your doctor prescribes Nitisinone for you or your beloved child, it's normal to have a lot of questions. This is because it's not a medicine for a common illness that everyone gets. So today, let's talk about this medicine called Nitisinone, what it actually does, how to use it, and what precautions you need to take, all in a very simple way that you can understand.
What kind of medicine is this? What happens with Nitisinone?
Simply put, Nitisinone is a drug that slows down and controls the rate at which our body breaks down an amino acid called tyrosine. Think of tyrosine as a building block used to make proteins in our bodies.
This drug is specifically used to treat a very rare, inherited condition called Hereditary Tyrosinemia Type I. In people with this condition, the body cannot properly break down (metabolize) tyrosine. Then it builds up in the body and turns into toxic substances that can damage the liver, kidneys, and nervous system. So what Nitisinone does is stop those harmful substances from being produced.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before starting this medication, you should clearly explain these things to your doctor. This is very important for your safety.
- If you have an allergic reaction to Nitisinone or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
How should I use this medicine?
It is very important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by the doctor, in the exact dosage.
- How to take: Sometimes you can dissolve the pill in a little water and give it to your child using an oral syringe. Or, you can crush the pill and mix a small amount with something like applesauce and give it to your child. However, no matter what you do, you should use the medicine immediately after making it.
- On time: Make it a habit to take your medicine at the same time every day. Do not take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly: Never stop taking this medicine without your doctor's advice. Doing so may worsen your condition.
Can this medicine be given to small children?
Yes, this medicine can be prescribed even to a newborn with this condition. But it should be done under the close supervision of a pediatrician. There are some special considerations when giving it to children.
Important note: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
Special points to consider when taking the medicine
There are two very important things you need to pay attention to while taking this medicine.
1. Scheduled tests and check-ups
It is essential to go to the clinic for check-ups as prescribed by your doctor. While taking this medicine, you will need to have some important blood tests done regularly to check your blood count and liver function. Do not skip these tests.
2. Special Diet
This is the most important thing . Following a special diet is as important as, or even more important than, taking this medicine.
You will need to follow a special diet while taking this medicine. You will need to limit the amount of amino acids called Tyrosine and Phenylalanine in your diet. Talk to your doctor about this and, if necessary, a nutritionist at a government hospital, and follow their instructions carefully. If you do not follow this diet properly, you will not get the full benefits of the medicine.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like any medication, Nitisinone can cause some side effects. Let's break these down into two categories.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergy symptoms | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. |
| Changes in the eyes | Vision changes, redness of the eyes, eye pain, sensitivity to light. |
| Liver problems | Yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, tarry stools, pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. |
| Other serious symptoms | Unusual bruising or bleeding, extreme fatigue, feeling feverish, loss of appetite, nausea, and painful lumps on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | Flatulence |
| Dry skin | Dry skin |
| Hair loss | Hair loss |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything else unusual, talk to your doctor.
What to do if you miss a dose and drink too much?
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately . Or, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Unit (ETU) as soon as possible.
How should I store the medicine?
- Keep out of reach of children .
- Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius).
- Throw away expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Nitisinone is a special medication that must be taken as directed by a doctor and in the prescribed dosage.
- In addition to taking this medication, it is also essential to follow a special diet (low in tyrosine and phenylalanine) that is associated with it.
- Never stop taking medication without medical advice.
- Attend clinics on scheduled dates and get all the necessary blood tests done.
- If you notice any serious side effects, such as yellowing of the eyes or unusual bruising, notify your doctor immediately.
- Keep medicines in a safe place out of the reach of children.
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