Pegvisomant Injection (PEGVISOMANT - INJECTION)

Instructions

This medicine will be given to you at home.

This medicine is used by injecting it into the skin. Please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for the correct places on your body where this medicine can be injected.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Gently swirl to mix the medicine. Do not shake.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. If frozen, throw away.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

You may store this medicine at room temperature for up to 30 days. Do not put back in refrigerator.

Protect medicine from light.

If your medicine is stored in the refrigerator, take it out of the refrigerator before use to warm to room temperature.

Inject the medicine immediately after mixing.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

The first dose of this medicine should be started in the doctor's office to determine proper dose strength.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Clean the injection site with alcohol before applying the injector.

Use this medicine at the same time each day.

Do not inject into skin that is bruised, tender, red, hard or has scars or stretch marks.

Avoid injecting the medicine within 2 inches around the navel.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

Do not rub or massage the area where the injection was given.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Brand Name(s): Somavert

Generic Name: Pegvisomant

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• diarrhea
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• nausea

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.