Do you also experience changes in your eyes with a thyroid problem? Maybe your eyes are swollen, red, and bulging? Or do you see two things at once? We call this condition Thyroid Eye Disease. Today, we are going to talk about a specific, advanced treatment for this.
Simply put, what is Teprotumumab?
Teprotumumab (pronounced: তেপ্রাতুমাব) is a special injection given to treat thyroid eye disease . Its main function is to reduce swelling and inflammation around the eyes. When this swelling is reduced, symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bulging eyes are controlled. It can also improve problems such as double vision.
This is a monoclonal antibody . That is, it is a drug that is specially designed in the laboratory to work like a protein in our body's immune system. It goes directly to the process that causes the disease and stops it. This drug usually comes under the brand name TEPEZZA.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before starting this treatment, it is very important to inform your doctor about your complete health condition. Be sure to tell them if you have any of the following conditions:
- Diabetes: Tell your doctor if you or someone in your family has diabetes, as this medicine may increase your blood sugar levels.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease: If you have a condition like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis .
- Allergies: Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to this medicine, Teprotumumab, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- Pregnancy: This is a must-mention if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or planning to get pregnant soon.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, also inform the doctor.
How to use the medicine?
This is not a medicine you can take home. Teprotumumab is an injection that is given as a saline solution through a vein . It is usually given to you in a hospital or clinic by trained medical staff.
What to do if you overdose?
Since this is given in a hospital, the chance of overdose is very low. However, if you think that something has happened, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss a dose?
If you are unable to attend your scheduled treatment, do not skip it. Contact your doctor or clinic as soon as possible to schedule your next appointment. It is very important to stick to your treatment schedule.
Remember: This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
What are the things to be careful about when taking medication?
There are a few special things you need to pay attention to while undergoing this treatment.
1. Regular medical check-ups: Your doctor will tell you to come in for check-ups on scheduled days. Be sure to go on those days to check how you are doing. Let your doctor know if your symptoms are getting better or worse.
2. Avoid getting pregnant: This is very important . If you or your partner are planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about it. You should avoid getting pregnant completely while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping treatment . This medicine can cause serious birth defects in an unborn baby.
3. Blood Sugar: This medicine may increase blood sugar levels. People with diabetes are at higher risk. Therefore, be aware of symptoms such as frequent thirst, frequent urination, unusual tiredness, and blurred vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, tell your doctor.
4. Infusion Reactions: Some people may experience a reaction when the injection is given . For example, they may experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, or dizziness. To reduce this risk, your doctor may give you other medications (such as Panadol or Pyridoxine) before giving you the Teprotumumab injection.
Side effects that may occur with this medicine
Like any medicine, this medicine can cause side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Some side effects can be serious, so it is important to be aware of them.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms and what to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these occur. |
| High blood sugar levels (Hyperglycemia) | Excessive thirst, frequent urination, unusual fatigue, blurred vision. |
| Infusion Reactions | Chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, feeling faint. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Dry skin | Dry skin. |
| Hair loss | More hair loss than normal. |
| Hearing loss | Hearing a ringing in the ears or slightly impaired hearing. |
| Changes in monthly menstruation | Heavy bleeding during menstruation, irregular menstruation, increased menstrual pain. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything different, talk to your doctor for medical advice.
Take-Home Message
- Teprotumumab is a special injection given through a vein in a hospital for thyroid eye disease.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions (especially diabetes, allergies).
- Avoid getting pregnant completely while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping treatment.
- Be aware of signs of high blood sugar levels (excessive thirst, frequent urination) and possible reactions to the injection (difficulty breathing, dizziness).
- If you notice any serious side effects, tell your doctor immediately. If you are in doubt about anything, don't hesitate to ask.
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