Why is this medication prescribed?

Fuzeon (enfuvirtide) is prescribed for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. It is typically used in combination with other antiretroviral medications for patients who have developed resistance to other HIV drugs or who have advanced HIV infection.

Fuzeon belongs to a class of drugs called fusion inhibitors, which work by blocking HIV from entering human immune cells. By preventing HIV from entering cells, Fuzeon helps to slow down the progression of HIV infection and reduce viral replication.

Fuzeon is often recommended for individuals who have limited treatment options due to resistance to other HIV medications. It is used as part of a comprehensive HIV treatment regimen to suppress viral replication, reduce viral load, and improve immune function.

Overall, Fuzeon plays a crucial role in the management of HIV infection, particularly for individuals who have limited treatment options or who require alternative medications due to drug resistance.

How should this medicine be used?

Fuzeon (enfuvirtide) is typically used in the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Here are the general guidelines for using Fuzeon:

• Administration: Fuzeon is administered via subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected under the skin. It should not be injected intravenously or intramuscularly.
• Injection sites: The injections are typically given into the fatty tissue of the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. Rotate injection sites to prevent injection site reactions and to ensure proper absorption of the medication.
• Dosage: The recommended dosage of Fuzeon is usually 90 mg (1 mL) administered twice daily. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you based on factors such as your viral load, CD4 count, and previous HIV treatment history.
• Injection technique: Before administering Fuzeon injections, ensure that you have been properly trained by a healthcare professional on the correct injection technique. Use a new needle and syringe for each injection to prevent contamination and infection.
• Storage: Fuzeon should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze the medication. If refrigeration is not available, Fuzeon can be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) for up to 24 hours. Do not expose the medication to excessive heat or direct sunlight.
• Preparation: Before administering the injection, allow Fuzeon to come to room temperature if it has been refrigerated. Gently swirl the vial to ensure that the medication is thoroughly mixed and appears clear and colorless. Do not shake the vial vigorously.
• Injection process: Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry. Pinch the skin and insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle, depending on the thickness of the skin and the length of the needle. Inject the medication slowly and steadily. After injecting, remove the needle and apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a sterile cotton ball or gauze.
• Disposal: Dispose of needles, syringes, and unused medication properly in a puncture-resistant container as instructed by your healthcare provider or local guidelines.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about using Fuzeon or any other medication.

Other uses for this medicine

Fuzeon (enfuvirtide) is primarily used for the treatment of HIV-1 infection and is not typically prescribed for other medical conditions. However, there are no other approved uses for Fuzeon beyond HIV treatment.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Fuzeon, it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:

• Allergic reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to enfuvirtide or any other medications. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Injection site reactions: Fuzeon is administered via subcutaneous injection, which may cause injection site reactions such as pain, redness, swelling, or nodules. Rotate injection sites and follow proper injection technique to minimize discomfort. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent injection site reactions.
• Drug interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. Some medications may interact with Fuzeon, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of Fuzeon with your healthcare provider. It is not known whether Fuzeon can harm an unborn baby. Additionally, it is not known whether Fuzeon passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while using Fuzeon.
• Immune reconstitution syndrome: In some patients with advanced HIV infection and severe immune deficiency, signs and symptoms of inflammation from previous infections may occur soon after starting antiretroviral therapy, including Fuzeon. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience new or worsening symptoms after starting treatment with Fuzeon.
• Liver and kidney function: Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be necessary while taking Fuzeon, especially in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions.
• Adherence to treatment: It’s crucial to take Fuzeon exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Missing doses or not following the prescribed dosing schedule may reduce the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of developing drug resistance.

Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you may have regarding Fuzeon or any other medications you are taking. They can provide personalized guidance and monitor your health to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions for Fuzeon. However, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is essential for overall well-being, especially for individuals living with HIV. Ensure you’re consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, and following any dietary recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Fuzeon, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fuzeon (enfuvirtide) can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some common side effects of Fuzeon include:

• Injection site reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, or nodules at the injection site are common side effects of Fuzeon. These reactions typically occur within the first week of treatment and may decrease in severity over time.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing, can occur with Fuzeon. These reactions are rare but can be serious. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction.
• Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience diarrhea while taking Fuzeon. This side effect is usually mild to moderate in severity.
• Nausea: Nausea is another common side effect of Fuzeon. It may occur during the first few weeks of treatment and typically improves over time.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a possible side effect of Fuzeon. It may occur as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Headache: Headaches are reported by some individuals taking Fuzeon. These headaches are usually mild to moderate in intensity.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia may occur in some individuals using Fuzeon.
• Injection site infections: Rarely, injection site reactions may become infected. Signs of infection include increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage at the injection site. Contact your healthcare provider if you suspect an infection.
• Immune reconstitution syndrome: Some patients with advanced HIV infection may experience symptoms of inflammation from previous infections shortly after starting antiretroviral therapy, including Fuzeon.

It’s essential to report any side effects you experience while taking Fuzeon to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment regimen if necessary. Additionally, seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent side effects, signs of an allergic reaction, or any other concerning symptoms.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Fuzeon:

• Storage: Fuzeon should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze the medication. Keep Fuzeon in its original carton to protect it from light. If refrigeration is not available, Fuzeon can be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) for up to 24 hours. Avoid exposing Fuzeon to excessive heat or direct sunlight.
• Disposal: Dispose of used needles, syringes, and any unused Fuzeon vials properly in a puncture-resistant container. Follow local guidelines or consult your healthcare provider for instructions on safe disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Fuzeon, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe injection site reactions, allergic reactions, or other serious side effects. It’s essential to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms.

What other information should I know?

• Take Fuzeon exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not stop taking Fuzeon without consulting your doctor, as stopping the medication abruptly may lead to resistance and make the infection harder to treat.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Fuzeon.
• Report any side effects or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Fuzeon is administered by injection, typically in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.
• Follow proper injection techniques as instructed by your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of injection site reactions.
• Keep track of your injection sites and rotate them to prevent irritation or lipoatrophy (loss of fat tissue).
• Store the medication away from children and pets.
• Keep a record of your doses and injection sites for reference.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the safe and effective use of Fuzeon. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.