GENERIC NAME: ENFUVIRTIDE - INJECTION (en-FEW-ver-tide)
BRAND NAME(S): Fuzeon
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
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: Learn how to prepare and inject this drug and review the patient information leaflet and the injection instructions leaflet. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Inject this medication under the skin (subcutaneously) usually twice daily into the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. 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. 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 needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist. 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. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: anxiety, muscle pain, signs of injection site infection (such as oozing, warmth, persistent pain and redness). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: abdominal pain, loss of appetite, cough with fever, rapid breathing, shortness of breath. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing, fever, chills, nausea/vomiting. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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.
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