Why is this medication prescribed?

Eliglustat is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of Gaucher disease, a rare genetic disorder where fatty substances accumulate in cells and certain organs. Specifically, it’s used in patients with Gaucher disease type 1, which is the most common form of the condition.

Eliglustat works by inhibiting an enzyme called glucosylceramide synthase, which helps reduce the buildup of fatty substances in the body.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Eliglustat is typically used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Eliglustat can vary based on factors such as the patient’s weight, age, and the severity of the disease. It’s crucial to follow the dosage instructions provided by the prescribing healthcare professional.
• Administration: Eliglustat is usually taken orally in the form of capsules. It’s important to take the medication exactly as prescribed, typically once or twice daily with food. Taking it with food helps increase its absorption and reduce the risk of certain side effects.
• Monitoring: Patients prescribed Eliglustat will likely require regular monitoring by their healthcare provider. This monitoring may include blood tests to assess the effectiveness of the medication and to check for any potential side effects.
• Compliance: It’s essential for patients to take Eliglustat consistently and as prescribed to achieve the best possible outcomes in managing Gaucher disease. Missing doses or not following the prescribed regimen can affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Other medications: Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies they are taking, as some substances may interact with Eliglustat, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

As with any medication, it’s important for patients to discuss any questions or concerns they have about Eliglustat with their healthcare provider. They should also report any unusual symptoms or side effects experienced while taking the medication.

Other uses for this medicine

As for other uses for Eliglustat, it is primarily indicated for Gaucher disease type 1 and may not be used for other conditions unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare professional. Off-label use of Eliglustat should be avoided without proper medical guidance.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Eliglustat:

• Medical History: Before starting Eliglustat, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, including any allergies, previous medication reactions, liver or kidney problems, heart conditions, and any other health issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it’s crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits of taking Eliglustat with your doctor. The effects of Eliglustat on pregnancy and breastfeeding are not well-studied, so caution is advised.
• Liver Function: Eliglustat may affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes through blood tests is typically recommended during treatment. If you experience symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), abdominal pain, nausea, or unusual fatigue, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Drug Interactions: Eliglustat can interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Eliglustat to minimize the risk of interactions.
• Driving and Machinery: Some individuals may experience dizziness, fatigue, or other side effects while taking Eliglustat. If you experience these symptoms, use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Storage: Store Eliglustat capsules at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when taking Eliglustat or any other medication. If you have specific concerns or questions about Eliglustat, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with taking Eliglustat. However, it’s generally recommended to take Eliglustat capsules with food to improve absorption and reduce the risk of certain side effects. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding diet and medication administration.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Eliglustat, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Eliglustat, like many medications, can cause side effects in some individuals. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Common side effects of Eliglustat may include:

• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Eliglustat.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or experiencing fatigue is a common side effect.
• Nausea: Nausea is another common side effect of Eliglustat.
• Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience diarrhea while taking the medication.
• Pain in Extremities: Pain or discomfort in the arms or legs can occur.
• Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the abdominal region is possible.
• Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded may occur in some individuals.
• Constipation: Constipation is a less common side effect but may still occur.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Some individuals may experience infections of the upper respiratory tract, such as the common cold.
• Back Pain: Pain in the back is another potential side effect.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, some individuals may experience more severe side effects or allergic reactions to Eliglustat. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms while taking Eliglustat, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Furthermore, because Eliglustat can affect liver function, it’s crucial to monitor for signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

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

Regarding the storage and disposal of Eliglustat:

• Storage: Store Eliglustat capsules at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: When disposing of expired or unused Eliglustat capsules, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after taking Eliglustat, such as severe dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention. You can call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room for assistance.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely monitor your liver function regularly while you’re taking Eliglustat. It’s essential to attend all scheduled appointments and follow any recommendations for blood tests or other monitoring.
• Follow-up: Keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to assess your response to Eliglustat and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Eliglustat, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Eliglustat. This includes doctors, dentists, and pharmacists, as well as any emergency medical personnel.
• Travel: If you plan to travel while taking Eliglustat, make sure to bring an adequate supply of medication with you. Keep it in its original container, and consider carrying a copy of your prescription in case you need to refill it or seek medical care while away from home.
• Support Services: Consider reaching out to support groups or organizations dedicated to individuals with Gaucher disease for additional information, resources, and support.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when taking Eliglustat or any other medication. If you have specific concerns or questions about Eliglustat, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.