Cerdelga (Eliglustat)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Cerdelga Used For?
Cerdelga is a medication that helps manage Gaucher disease type 1, a rare inherited condition characterized by the accumulation of glucosylceramide in the body.
Primary Uses
Cerdelga is primarily used for the long-term treatment of adult patients with Gaucher disease type 1.
How It Works
Cerdelga works by decreasing the production of glucosylceramide, thereby preventing its harmful accumulation in the spleen, liver, and bones.
Good to know: Cerdelga is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Cerdelga
It is important to take Cerdelga as prescribed to ensure its effectiveness.
Dosage Instructions
For intermediate or extensive metabolizers: Take one 84 mg capsule twice daily (one in the morning and one at night). For poor metabolizers: Take one 84 mg capsule once daily at the same time each day.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose. If it's close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
Important: Never double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
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:
- Indigestion
- Stomach ache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Bloating
- Irregular heartbeat
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Fainting (especially if you have risk factors)
Important Warnings
Be aware of specific warnings before taking Cerdelga.
Who Should Not Take Cerdelga
Do not take Cerdelga if you are allergic to eliglustat or any of its ingredients, or if you have liver or kidney problems without consulting your doctor.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have heart problems, including irregular heartbeat or long QT syndrome.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Cerdelga.
Drug Interactions
Cerdelga may interact with other medications, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit products as they may increase Cerdelga levels in your blood.
- Strong or moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors
- Strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors
- Antidepressants (e.g., paroxetine, fluoxetine)
- Antiarrhythmics (e.g., quinidine, dronedarone)
- Antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin)
- Antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, voriconazole)
- Antiretrovirals (e.g., atazanavir, darunavir)
- Other medications affecting heart rate or metabolism
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Cerdelga.
Alcohol
Inform your doctor if you consume alcohol.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Cerdelga may cause dizziness; be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how it affects you.
Storage
Store Cerdelga capsules in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include dizziness, slow heart rate, nausea, and light-headedness.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Cerdelga to show effects can vary by individual, as it depends on how your body metabolizes the medication.
Cerdelga can be taken with or without food.
Cerdelga is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Cerdelga suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may affect your treatment.
You should inform your doctor if you consume alcohol while taking Cerdelga.
Consult your doctor for advice regarding safety in elderly patients.
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double dose.
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.