What you need to know about the Pegvaliase injection for PKU

Do you have Phenylketonuria, or PKU as we all know it, a condition that causes an increase in the amino acid phenylalanine in your blood? So, you are probably well aware of the fact that Pegvaliase is a special injection that is given to control this level. You probably have a lot of questions in your mind about this medicine. Don't worry, today we will talk about this medicine, its effectiveness, side effects and how to use it safely in a simple way that you can understand.

Simply put, what is this medicine called Pegvaliase?

This is the simplest explanation. People with PKU have a condition where their bodies can't properly break down, or digest, a substance called phenylalanine. This then builds up in the blood and can damage the brain and nervous system.

So, what the Pegvaliase injection does is it helps your body. That is, it helps your body break down this phenylalanine that your body can't break down. Then it stops building up in your blood and the levels are controlled. This medication is usually marketed under the brand name Palynziq .

Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine

Okay, before you start this medication, you should definitely and honestly talk to your doctor about these things. Don't hide these things, because this is very important for your safety.

• Allergies: If you have any allergies, not just to Pegvaliase, but to any other medicine, food, dye, or preservative, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon, you should tell your doctor.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, be sure to inform your baby about that as well.

Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is suitable for you or not, and with what precautions it should be given.

How to use the medicine correctly?

This is a type of injection that you can inject under the skin at home. But don't worry. Your doctor or a trained nurse will explain to you clearly and thoroughly how to give it and how to prepare the medicine.

• Take only the prescribed dose: Take the dose prescribed by your doctor, exactly at the prescribed time. Do not stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to stop.
• Safe disposal of needles and syringes: This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Instead, put them in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
• Special Instructions: You will receive a special instructions leaflet (MedGuide) when you are given this medicine. Read it carefully every time. Don't be shy to ask your doctor if there is anything you don't understand.

Things to be especially careful about when taking medication

Your doctor will monitor your condition regularly while you are taking this medication. This may include blood work.

Extremely important: Watch out for severe allergic reactions!

One thing to be extremely careful about when using this medication is the possibility of severe allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis. This is a life-threatening emergency.

Because of this risk, your doctor will prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector . It's a pen-like device. You and a family member will be instructed on how and when to use it in the event of an allergic reaction.

Also, always keep the Patient Wallet Card that you are given with you and show it to every doctor and nurse who treats you.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medication, this one can have some side effects. Some are urgent, while others are common. Let's break them down.

This list does not include all possible side effects. In addition, if you experience anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.

What if I take too much medicine or miss a meal?

Overdosage

Imagine that if you suspect that you have taken an overdose of this medication, there are two things you should do immediately.

1. Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .

2. Call the National Poison Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital.

If you miss a dose of medication (Missed Dose)

Don't worry. Don't take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. That can be dangerous. All you have to do is forget about the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time.

How to store medicine properly?

To maintain the quality of the medicine, it is very important to store it properly.

• Best method: Keeping it in the refrigerator is best. But never put it in the freezer. That means don't freeze it.
• Room temperature: If necessary, it can be stored at room temperature up to 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) for up to 30 days. However, if you do, any leftovers after 30 days should be discarded. It is not recommended to put it back in the refrigerator.
• Other points: Always keep medicine in its original packaging. Protect from light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Throw away expired medicine.

Pegvaliase, Palynziq, PKU, Phenylketonuria, Phenylalanine, Vaccine, Side Effects, Allergy, Epinephrine, Medication