Sometimes, some diseases that our children get are very rare. And the treatments for them are also very special. Today we are going to talk about a special vaccine that is given for such rare and serious immune system diseases. Its name is Pegademase Bovine. Perhaps your doctor has told you about this medicine. So, let's get rid of the fear and doubt about this and simply understand these things.
What is this medicine called Pegademase Bovine?
Simply put, Pegademase Bovine is an external administration of an enzyme that is naturally produced in our bodies, but is missing in some people. Think of our body as a big factory. This factory needs different types of workers (enzymes) to function properly. Sometimes, due to genetic reasons, one of these workers may be absent from birth.
What is missing here is an enzyme called Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) . This enzyme is essential for our immune system to function properly. When it is missing, the immune system becomes very weak. The condition is called Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease (SCID) .
So what this Pegademase Bovine vaccine does is provide the body with that missing ADA enzyme. This is a modified version of an enzyme taken from cows.
Very important: This is not a cure for the disease. However, it does help control symptoms, help the immune system do its job, and allow you to live a normal life.
Things to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before starting this treatment, it is essential to give the doctor a complete description of your or your child's health condition. Be sure to tell them about the following in particular.
| Information to be reported | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Bleeding problems | If you bruise easily, or if bleeding does not stop even from a small wound. |
| Decrease in blood platelets | If your blood tests show low platelet counts. |
| Current infections | If you currently have any infection such as fever, cough, or cold. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to this Pegademase Bovine medicine, other medicines, foods, preservatives, or dyes. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How is this vaccine used?
This is an injection into a muscle . This is usually given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic. However, in some cases, you will be instructed to give yourself this injection at home. If so, follow the instructions exactly as they tell you, without changing a single letter . It is very important to take the medicine exactly at the prescribed time.
Special awareness about needles and syringes
If you are giving the vaccine at home, you need to be very careful with the needles and syringes you use.
- Never throw used needles in the trash.
- There is a special sharps container where these can be disposed of.
- If you don't have one, talk to your doctor and ask how to get one.
When given to children?
There are cases where this medicine is given even to newborn babies. However, special care should be taken when giving this to children. Therefore, talk to your pediatrician carefully about giving this treatment to your child and explain everything.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
What side effects should you be aware of?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Some of them should be reported immediately, while others are common. Let's take a look at them.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Things to tell your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash , itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. |
| Difficulty breathing | Feeling like it's hard to breathe. |
| Dizziness and loss of consciousness | Dizziness, blue eyes, fainting, or falling. |
| Unusual weakness | Feeling extremely tired or weak for no reason. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | A common headache. |
| Pain at the injection site | Pain or redness at the injection site. |
If you notice anything unusual that is not mentioned on this list, talk to your doctor about it as well.
A few other important points
- What if I miss a dose? It is very important not to miss a dose of this medicine. If you are going to a clinic to take your medicine, call your doctor in advance if you cannot go. If you are taking your medicine at home, call your doctor immediately if you miss a dose. Never take a double dose at once.
- Interactions with other medications: Some medications, such as Vidarabine , may interact with this vaccine. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements). Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
- Storage: If you are storing this medicine at home, store it in the fridge at a temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius . Never put it in the freezer. Also, keep it out of the reach of children. Throw away any expired medicine.
Throughout the course of this treatment, it is essential to go for check-ups on the scheduled dates as advised by the doctor. You will also need to have regular blood tests to check the functioning of your immune system.
Take-Home Message
- Pegademase Bovine is an enzyme replacement therapy for a rare immune disease called SCID. It is not a cure, but a control.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about your complete health history, other medications you are taking, and any allergies you may have.
- Do not skip doses. If you miss a dose, call your doctor immediately. Never take a double dose.
- If you experience severe side effects such as difficulty breathing or facial swelling, seek medical advice immediately.
- Store the medicine properly in the refrigerator. Do not put it in the freezer.
- Dispose of used needles and syringes safely in a special container.
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