 |
| Setting Realistic Expectations |
Zavesca
works by inhibiting the synthesis of glucosylceramide, so
its effects may be gradual. Therefore, when managing a patient
receiving Zavesca, stress the importance of allowing Zavesca
adequate time to take effect.
Managing Adverse Reactions |
Managing
adverse reactions is central to successful Zavesca therapy.
Sharing with your patients the likelihood of adverse reactions
will prepare them for
their therapy and help them judge its realistic risks and benefits. |
- Peripheral neuropathy has been reported
in patients treated with Zavesca1;
Zavesca therapy should be reassessed in patients who develop
peripheral neuropathy1; all
patients started on Zavesca should undergo a neurological
examination at baseline and at 6-month intervals thereafter1
- Mild-to-moderate tremor may also occur;
it may either resolve spontaneously or within days following
dose reduction
- Mild-to-moderate diarrhea is the most
common adverse reaction to Zavesca; it can be managed with
anti-diarrheals (eg, loperamide hydrochloride) and/or dietary
changes1
- Weight loss is the second most common
adverse reaction; it is generally mild (loss of 6%–7%
of total body weight)2 and
most prevalent in the first year of treatment1
Prior to Initiating Zavesca Therapy |
| A complete
medical examination considering all medical conditions is
recommended for all patients prior to starting Zavesca therapy;
the examination should include a neurological examination. |
- Patients should be told to alert their
physician immediately if they experience any symptoms of
peripheral neuropathy or tremor
- Women should be apprised of the potential
hazard to a fetus
- Men should be advised not to plan to
conceive while taking Zavesca and for 3 months thereafter
- Patients with severe renal impairment
should not take Zavesca
Encouraging Compliance |
| Encouraging
compliance with the tid dosing regimen is important. |
- Tips such as taking Zavesca with meals
may help some patients remember to take Zavesca at regular
intervals
- Remind your patients that Zavesca should
be stored at room temperature and that it can be taken either
with or without food
- If they miss a dose they should take
the next Zavesca capsule at the usual time
- Provide your patients with the patient
information and instruct them to read it
1. Zavesca® (miglustat) package
insert. Actelion Ltd. 2003.
2. Data on file, Actelion Pharmaceuticals US, Inc.
|
