Why is this medication prescribed?

Enfuvirtide injection is prescribed for the treatment of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. It is specifically used in combination with other antiretroviral medications to control HIV infection in adults and children over the age of 6 years who have already tried other HIV medications without success.

Enfuvirtide belongs to a class of drugs known as fusion inhibitors. It works by blocking the entry of HIV into immune cells, thus helping to prevent the virus from multiplying and reducing the amount of HIV in the body.

How should this medicine be used?

Enfuvirtide injection should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Here are the general guidelines for using Enfuvirtide injection:

• Administration: Enfuvirtide is administered as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected under the skin. It should not be injected into a vein or muscle.
• Injection sites: Rotate injection sites with each dose to minimize the risk of injection site reactions and to ensure proper absorption of the medication. Suitable injection sites include the upper arms, thighs, or abdomen. Do not inject into areas with bruises, scars, or areas with broken skin.
• Preparation: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing the injection. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry.
• Reconstitution: Enfuvirtide comes in a powder form and needs to be reconstituted (mixed) with sterile water before use. Follow the instructions provided with the medication for proper reconstitution.
• Drawing up the dose: After reconstitution, use a syringe to draw up the prescribed dose of Enfuvirtide. Make sure to expel any air bubbles from the syringe before injecting.
• Injection: Pinch a fold of skin at the injection site and insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle. Inject the medication slowly and steadily. Do not massage the injection site after the injection.
• Disposal: Safely dispose of needles, syringes, and any unused medication as per local regulations. Do not reuse needles or syringes.
• Storage: Store Enfuvirtide powder and reconstituted solution as directed on the packaging. Follow the recommended storage conditions to maintain the effectiveness of the medication.

It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule and not to miss any doses. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next dose. In such cases, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for guidance on missed doses.

As with any medication, if there are any questions or concerns about how to use Enfuvirtide injection, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for clarification and guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Enfuvirtide injection is primarily used for the treatment of HIV infection, particularly in individuals who have not responded to other antiretroviral medications. There are no other approved uses for Enfuvirtide injection beyond its indication for HIV treatment.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be observed when using Enfuvirtide injection:

• Allergy: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to Enfuvirtide or any other medications. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Injection site reactions: Enfuvirtide injection may cause local injection site reactions, including pain, redness, swelling, or hardened areas under the skin. Rotate injection sites and follow proper injection techniques to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of injection site reactions.
• Monitoring: Regularly monitor your HIV viral load and CD4 cell count as directed by your healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of treatment and detect any potential side effects.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking, as Enfuvirtide may interact with certain medications. Avoid using Enfuvirtide with other antiretroviral medications that target the same step of the viral replication cycle.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Enfuvirtide during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been established, and the potential benefits and risks should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
• Immune reconstitution syndrome: As with other antiretroviral medications, initiation of Enfuvirtide therapy may cause immune reconstitution syndrome, where the immune system recovers and responds to infections or inflammation that were previously hidden. Monitor for signs and symptoms of immune reconstitution syndrome, such as fever, worsening of infections, or development of new infections, and promptly seek medical attention if these occur.
• Liver and kidney function: Enfuvirtide may affect liver and kidney function. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function tests may be necessary during treatment.
• Injection safety: Use caution when handling needles and syringes, and follow proper disposal procedures to prevent accidental needle sticks and transmission of bloodborne infections.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice regarding the use of Enfuvirtide injection, and report any unexpected or concerning symptoms promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions are not typically associated with Enfuvirtide Injection. However, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is important for overall health, especially for individuals living with HIV. It’s recommended to follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Additionally, staying hydrated and avoiding excessive alcohol and processed foods can help support overall health and well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Enfuvirtide Injection, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you have questions or concerns about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance. It’s important to try to take Enfuvirtide consistently as prescribed to maintain its effectiveness in managing HIV infection.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Enfuvirtide injection, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some common side effects of Enfuvirtide injection may include:

• Injection site reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, itching, or hardened areas at the injection site are common. These reactions usually improve with continued use and proper rotation of injection sites.
• Allergic reactions: Rarely, Enfuvirtide may cause allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience diarrhea while taking Enfuvirtide. Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet can help manage this side effect.
• Nausea: Nausea or vomiting may occur in some individuals, especially when starting Enfuvirtide treatment. Taking the medication with food or at bedtime may help alleviate these symptoms.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a possible side effect of Enfuvirtide. It’s important to get an adequate amount of rest and to inform your healthcare provider if fatigue becomes severe or persistent.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of many medications, including Enfuvirtide. If headaches are severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.
• Joint pain: Some individuals may experience joint pain or discomfort while taking Enfuvirtide. Inform your healthcare provider if joint pain becomes bothersome.
• Injection site infections: In rare cases, injection site infections may occur. Signs of infection include increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus at the injection site. Contact your healthcare provider if you suspect an infection.
• Changes in liver or kidney function: Enfuvirtide may affect liver or kidney function in some individuals. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function tests may be necessary during treatment.

It’s essential to report any side effects or symptoms that concern you to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determine whether any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

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

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Store Enfuvirtide Injection vials in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze.
• Keep the vials in the original carton to protect them from light.
• Once reconstituted, the solution should be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator and used within 24 hours. Do not freeze reconstituted solution.

Disposal:

• Dispose of Enfuvirtide Injection vials, needles, and syringes properly according to local regulations.
• Do not reuse needles or syringes.
• If you are unsure about how to dispose of used needles and syringes, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an emergency or overdose, contact your healthcare provider, local poison control center, or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose with Enfuvirtide Injection are not well-defined. However, it’s essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have received too much medication.

What other information should I know?

• Enfuvirtide Injection is not a cure for HIV infection; it is used to manage the virus and prevent its progression.
• This medication should be used as part of a comprehensive HIV treatment regimen prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• It is important to take Enfuvirtide Injection regularly as prescribed to maintain its effectiveness in managing HIV infection.
• Do not share Enfuvirtide Injection or needles/syringes with others, as this can spread infections.
• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about all medications you are taking, including Enfuvirtide Injection, to avoid potential drug interactions.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the safe and appropriate use of Enfuvirtide Injection. If you have any questions or concerns about storage, disposal, emergencies, or any other aspect of your treatment, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further clarification and guidance.