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enfuvirtide - injection, Fuzeon

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GENERIC NAME: ENFUVIRTIDE - INJECTION (en-FUE-vir-tide)

BRAND NAME(S): Fuzeon

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used in combination with other anti-HIV drugs to treat HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection.It works by blocking the HIV virus' ability to infect healthy immune cells (CD4 cells).This medication does not cure HIV. Patients treated with this medication may continue to acquire "opportunistic" infections associated with HIV. This product also does not prevent the spread of HIV to others through sexual contact, blood, or sharing of needles.

HOW TO USE: Inject this medication under the skin (subcutaneously) usually twice daily into the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. Do not inject into the buttock or near the elbow, knee or groin. Rotate injection sites with each shot. Do not inject in or near bumps from past injections. Also, do not inject into moles, scars, bruises, or your belly button.If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.It is very important to continue using this medication (and other anti-HIV medications) exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip any doses.If you have a very serious allergic reaction to enfuvirtide, do not use it again (see Side Effects section).

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain, redness, itching, bruising, hardened skin, or bumps at the injection site may occur. These types of reactions are common and may last up to 7 days. Runny nose may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: anxiety, muscle pain, numbness/tingling/shooting nerve pain near injection site, signs of injection site infection (such as oozing, warmth, persistent pain and redness), abdominal pain, loss of appetite, cough with fever, rapid breathing, shortness of breath, night sweats, vision/eye changes.An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but get medical help right away if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), dizziness, trouble breathing, fever, chills, nausea/vomiting.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.