Myozyme (Alglucosidase Alfa-Rch)

Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information

Prescription Required

Quick Facts

Generic Name
alglucosidase alfa-rch
Drug Class
enzyme replacement therapy
Used For
treatment of Pompe disease
How Taken
intravenous infusion every two weeks

What Is Myozyme Used For?

Myozyme is an enzyme replacement therapy used to treat Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder characterized by low levels of the enzyme acid alfa-glucosidase.

Primary Uses

Myozyme is primarily used to replace the missing or insufficient enzyme in patients with Pompe disease.

How It Works

Myozyme works by restoring enzyme activity to help remove accumulated glycogen from the body, which is essential for normal muscle function.

Good to know: Myozyme is not addictive.

Continue Reading

Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.

How to Take Myozyme

Myozyme is administered through an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional.

Dosage Instructions

The recommended dosage of Myozyme is 20 mg/kg of body weight, given once every two weeks.

What If You Miss a Dose?

If you miss an appointment for your Myozyme infusion, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule.

Important: Never double the dose if you miss an infusion.

Side Effects

Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:

  • nausea
  • feeling hot
  • headache
  • sleepiness
  • fainting
  • burning sensation
  • increased tear production

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • dizziness
  • light-headedness
  • bluish tinged skin
  • fast heart rate
  • fever or high temperature
  • itchy rash
  • hives
  • difficulty breathing
  • vomiting
  • severe skin reactions

Impulse Control Issues

No information on impulse control issues was mentioned.

Important Warnings

There are several important warnings to consider before using Myozyme.

Who Should Not Take Myozyme

Do not use Myozyme if you are allergic to alglucosidase alfa-rch or any of its ingredients.

Medical Conditions to Discuss

Discuss any other medical conditions, current medications, or allergies with your doctor before starting Myozyme.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as there is limited information on the use of Myozyme in these situations.

Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, especially those with dementia.

Drug Interactions

Some medications may interact with Myozyme and affect its efficacy.

Grapefruit interaction: No grapefruit interaction mentioned.

  • Immunosuppressive medications
  • Other medications affecting enzyme levels

Alcohol & Driving

Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how Myozyme affects you.

Alcohol

No specific warnings about alcohol consumption were mentioned.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Make sure you understand how Myozyme affects your ability to drive or operate machinery before doing so.

Temperature Regulation

No information on temperature regulation was mentioned.

Storage

Myozyme should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C – 8°C. After reconstitution, it must be protected from light.

Overdose Information

There have been no reported cases of overdose with Myozyme. If an overdose is suspected, contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre.

Frequently Asked Questions

The time it takes for Myozyme to show effects can vary by individual, but it is administered regularly every two weeks.

There are no specific instructions regarding food interactions with Myozyme.

No, Myozyme is not considered addictive.

Consult your doctor before stopping Myozyme, as it is important for managing Pompe disease.

There are no specific warnings about alcohol consumption while taking Myozyme.

Weight gain is not mentioned as a side effect of Myozyme.

Elderly patients should use Myozyme with caution, especially those with dementia.

If you miss an infusion appointment, contact your doctor to reschedule as soon as possible.

Important Disclaimer

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

Create a free account to access the full medication guide.

Sign in to access your medication guides.