A big problem that some people living with HIV infection face is the accumulation of unwanted fat around the abdomen. This condition can change the shape of the body and cause mental stress. So, today we are going to talk about a special injection that doctors recommend as a solution to this problem. The name of this injection is Tesamorelin. Let's see what it is, how it is used, and what you need to know about it.
What kind of medicine is Tesamorelin?
Simply put, Tesamorelin is a drug used to reduce excess fat in the abdomen of HIV-infected patients. It works in a similar way to the body's growth hormone-releasing hormone. Through this process, the drug helps to break down fat cells, especially in the abdomen, and reduce their size.
But remember, this is not a one-size-fits-all medication. Your doctor will only recommend it if they have carefully examined your condition and determined that this medication is right for you.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
It is very important for your doctor to have a complete picture of your health history. Therefore, before starting tesamorelin injection, be sure to inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- Cancer: If you currently have cancer or have previously been treated for cancer.
- Head injuries or treatments: If you have recently had a head injury or have received radiation therapy to the head area.
- Pituitary gland problems: If there is a problem, such as a tumor, in the pituitary gland in the brain.
- Diabetes: If you are diabetic.
- Recent surgery or serious accident: If you have undergone major surgery or suffered a serious accident (trauma).
- Allergies: If you are allergic to tesamorelin, the ingredient mannitol, other medicines, foods, preservatives, or dyes.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, this is very important.
It is very important for your safety to tell the doctor without hiding this information.
How to use the vaccine correctly?
This is a subcutaneous injection. Although it may seem a little scary at first, it is designed so that you can do it yourself at home.
- Training: Don't worry, your doctor or a trained nurse will clearly show you how to prepare this vaccine and how to inject yourself. Follow those instructions exactly.
- Correct timing: Get the vaccine at the prescribed time and at the prescribed intervals. Do not take more than the prescribed dose or take it too often.
- Checking the vaccine: If there are undissolved particles in the vaccine after it has been dissolved, or if the liquid is colorless to cloudy or has a different color, do not use it. The correct solution should be clear and colorless.
- Used needles and syringes: This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be put in a special container (sharps container). If you don't have one, you can get one from your doctor or hospital.
What do I do if I miss a medication appointment?
If this happens, take the dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Medical tests: Keep in touch with your doctor regularly to check the results of your medication and monitor your health. Get blood tests done as he or she recommends.
- Diabetes: If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar levels regularly as directed by your doctor, as this medication may cause changes in your blood sugar levels.
- Pregnancy: You should avoid getting pregnant while taking this medicine. This may be harmful to the unborn baby. If you are trying to get pregnant, or suspect you are pregnant, you should talk to your doctor immediately and stop taking the medicine.
- Sharing the medicine: This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medicine, Tesamorelin can cause some side effects. Not everyone gets them, but it's important to be aware of them.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue or face, difficulty breathing. |
| Heart problems | Chest pain or tightness, rapid heartbeat (palpitations). |
| Symptoms of high blood sugar | Feeling hungrier or thirstier than usual, urinating more frequently. |
| Unusual weakness | Feeling unimaginably tired or weak. |
| Side effects that are usually not dangerous (but tell your doctor if they persist) | |
| Problems at the injection site | Pain, redness, swelling, or itching where the injection was given. |
| Body aches and swelling | Swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles, muscle pain, and numbness in the limbs. |
| Other features | Nausea, vomiting, depressed mood. |
Should I tell you about other medications I take?
Yes, absolutely. Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. That means not just the ones prescribed by your doctor. You should tell him about everything you are taking, including vitamins, herbal supplements, Ayurvedic medicines, painkillers, etc. It is especially important to tell him if you are taking the following medications:
- Cortisone
- Prednisone
- Simvastatin
- Ritonavir
Some medications may interact with this vaccine and cause unwanted effects.
What to do if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, do not panic and immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) . Or, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
How to store the medicine?
- Vials: Unopened vials should be stored in the refrigerator at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Do not freeze. Store in the original carton to protect from light.
- Diluent, syringes, and needles: Keep the diluent, syringes, and needles at room temperature.
- Keep away from children.
Take-Home Message
- Tesamorelin is a special injection given to reduce abdominal fat associated with HIV.
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor your complete health history, especially about cancer, diabetes, and allergies.
- Learn from your doctor or nurse about the correct way to get vaccinated. Follow the instructions exactly.
- If you experience severe side effects (difficulty breathing, chest pain, facial swelling), seek medical advice immediately.
- Dispose of used needles and syringes safely, in a sharps container only.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
- If you have any questions about this medicine, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.
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