Increlex (Mecasermin)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Increlex Used For?
Increlex is a medication used to help children and adolescents who are significantly shorter than their peers due to insufficient production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF 1).
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to treat primary IGF 1 deficiency in children and adolescents aged 2 to 18 years.
How It Works
Increlex mimics the action of IGF 1 produced by the body, promoting growth in children with this deficiency.
Good to know: Increlex is not addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Increlex
Increlex is administered through injections under the skin, and it's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
Dosage Instructions
The typical dosage is between 0.08 to 0.12 mg per kg of body weight, given twice daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If a dose is missed, do not double the next dose. Administer the next dose as scheduled, preferably with a meal or snack.
Important: Never double the dose if a dose is missed.
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:
- hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- injection site reactions (pain, irritation, swelling)
- headache
- dizziness
- joint pain
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- seizures or loss of consciousness (severe hypoglycemia)
- visual changes, severe headache, nausea (intracranial hypertension)
- allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing)
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before using Increlex.
Who Should Not Take Increlex
Do not give Increlex to children with current or past tumors, those who are allergic to mecasermin or any components of the medication, or children who have completed their growth.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if your child has scoliosis, hip or knee pain, enlarged tonsils, or has had reactions to previous injections.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Increlex should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the developing baby.
Drug Interactions
Increlex may interact with other medications, particularly those affecting blood sugar levels.
- insulin
- other anti-diabetes medications
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol or driving while on Increlex, as it may affect concentration and reaction times.
Alcohol
Alcohol may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Increlex can cause dizziness and low blood sugar, which may impair the ability to drive or operate machinery safely.
Storage
Store Increlex in the refrigerator at temperatures between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze. After first use, it can be kept for up to 30 days in the refrigerator.
Overdose Information
In case of an overdose, contact your child's doctor or the Poisons Information Centre immediately. Symptoms may include severe hypoglycemia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Increlex is a long-term therapy, and its effects on growth may take time to become noticeable.
It is recommended to take Increlex shortly before or after a meal to help prevent low blood sugar levels.
No, Increlex is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Increlex without consulting your child's doctor, as it may affect growth therapy.
Caution is advised with alcohol consumption, as it may increase the risk of low blood sugar.
Weight gain can occur, and it is important to monitor your child's growth and weight regularly.
There are no specific warnings for elderly patients mentioned, but they should consult their doctor before use.
If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose. Administer the next dose as usual.
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.