If you or someone you know has cystic fibrosis, your doctor may have prescribed this medicine called Tezacaftor; Ivacaftor. The brand name of this medicine is Symdeko. Since this is a somewhat specialized, modern medicine, it is very important to know exactly about it and use it correctly. So today, let's talk simply about this medicine, how it works, how to take it, and everything you need to be careful about.
What is Tezacaftor; Ivacaftor?
Simply put, this is a pill used to treat a disease called Cystic Fibrosis (CF). However, it is not given to all CF patients. This medicine only works for people who have certain mutations in their genes. Your doctor will do the necessary tests to determine if this medicine is right for you. It helps to correct a problem with the proteins in your body caused by CF. Your doctor may also prescribe it for other reasons. So if you have any questions, ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to know your complete health history. So, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor .
- If you have kidney disease.
- If you have liver disease.
- If you have previously had an unusual allergic reaction to the ingredients Tezacaftor, Ivacaftor, or to any other medicine, food, or preservative.
- If you are pregnant, or are expecting to become pregnant soon.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
It is very important for your own safety to tell the doctor this information without hiding it.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
To get the most out of this medicine, you need to take it exactly as prescribed.
- Take with a fatty meal: This medicine should always be taken with a fatty meal . For example, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, avocado, etc. will help the body absorb the medicine better.
- Swallow the tablet whole: Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole with a glass of water.
- Do not take with Grapefruit Juice: This is very important. Avoid eating or drinking grapes or grapefruit juice while taking this medication. It can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.
- Take it on time: Take your medicine at the time your doctor prescribes, at the appropriate intervals. If it's once a day, try to take it at the same time every day.
- Do not stop taking your medication without your doctor's advice: Do not stop taking your medication without asking your doctor first, whether it's because you feel better or for any other reason.
If you give this medicine to children...
This medicine is sometimes recommended for children over 6 years of age. However, this is a decision that will be made by your pediatrician. Follow his/her instructions exactly.
What to do if you take too much medicine (overdose)?
If you suspect you have taken an overdose, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or, if possible , go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
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 less than 6 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose. Just take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once to make up for a forgotten dose.
Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)
This medicine may interact with some other medicines. Therefore, it is essential to tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking (including vitamins, herbal medicines, and supplements). The table below explains this further.
| Drug type | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| Avoid taking these together completely. | |
| Some medicines given for fit | Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin |
| Medicine for tuberculosis | Rifampin, Rifabutin |
| An herb | St. John's Wort |
| A drink | Grapefruit juice |
| These may also cause conflicts (use only under medical advice) | |
| Some antibiotics | Clarithromycin, Erythromycin, Telithromycin |
| Antifungals | Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, Posaconazole, Voriconazole |
| Medications given after transplants | Cyclosporine, Everolimus, Sirolimus, Tacrolimus |
| A medicine for heart disease | Digoxin |
Possible side effects when taking the medicine
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some are serious, some are common.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Vision changes | Blurred vision, changes in the whites of the eyes (cataracts). |
| Symptoms of Liver Injury | Dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), loss of appetite, nausea, pain in the upper right side of the stomach, pale stools, unusual tiredness. |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | General headache. |
| Dizziness | Feeling dizzy. Avoid driving. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Sinus problems | Nasal congestion, mucus. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, tell your doctor about them as well.
Take-Home Message
- Tezacaftor; Ivacaftor (Symdeko) is a special medicine given to certain genetic conditions of Cystic Fibrosis.
- This medicine should always be taken with a fatty meal .
- Avoid drinking grapefruit juice completely while taking this medication.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- If you notice any signs of liver damage, such as changes in vision or yellowing of the skin , seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
- Don't hesitate to ask your doctor about any problems.
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