Egrifta Wr (Subcutaneous)
Tesamorelin is used to reduce excess fat around the stomach in adults with HIV associated lipodystrophy.
Tesamorelin is not indicated for weight control.
Tesamorelin is not recommended for use in children with open or closed bone growth plates (epiphyses).
Tesamorelin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
uses
What is Egrifta Wr (Subcutaneous) used for?
- Lipodystrophy
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Egrifta Wr (Subcutaneous)?
You should not use tesamorelin if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients, or if you have or have ever had:
- active cancer;
- problems with your pituitary gland;
- a pituitary gland tumor or surgery;
- a head injury or radiation treatment to your head; or
- if you are pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:
- cancer or a tumor;
- heart or blood vessel problems;
- a critical illness caused by complications after certain types of heart or stomach surgery, trauma, or severe breathing problems;
- high blood sugar or diabetes, eye problems caused by diabetes;
- breathing problems; or
- if you are scheduled to have heart or stomach surgery.
Using tesamorelin may increase your risk of developing new cancer or your cancer coming back. Stop using this medicine if any cancer symptoms return. Ask your doctor about your individual risk.
May harm an unborn baby. Do not use if you are pregnant. Stop using this medicine and tell your doctor if you become pregnant.
Women with HIV should not breastfeed. The virus can pass to your baby in your breast milk.
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Egrifta Wr (Subcutaneous)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Some side effects can occur where the medicine was injected and may sometimes become serious. Tell your medical caregiver if you have severe redness, irritation, swelling, itching, bruising, pain, or rash.
If you have diabetes, tell your doctor if you have new or worsening vision problems.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- joint pain, pain or numbness in your hands or wrist;
- high blood sugar--increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor; or
- fluid retention--shortness of breath (even while lying down), swelling, rapid weight gain (especially in your face and midsection).
Common side effects may include:
- joint or muscle pain;
- swelling in your arms, hands, legs, or feet;
- pain in your arms and legs; or
- pain, redness, itching, bruising, swelling, or irritation where the medicine was injected.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Egrifta Wr (Subcutaneous) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
May harm an unborn baby. Do not use if you are pregnant. Stop using this medicine and tell your doctor if you become pregnant.
Women with HIV should not breastfeed. The virus can pass to your baby in your breast milk.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Egrifta Wr (Subcutaneous)?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Egrifta Wr (Subcutaneous)?
Use Egrifta Wr (Subcutaneous) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Tesamorelin is injected under the skin in the stomach, usually once per day. A healthcare provider may give you this injection or may teach you how to properly use this medicine by yourself.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand how to use an injection.
Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Call your pharmacist if the medicine looks cloudy, has changed colors or has particles in it.
Be sure you understand how to properly mix this medicine with a liquid (diluent) and how to store the mixture.
Do not give an injection into skin that is scarred, bruised, or your navel (belly button). Do not inject into the same place two times in a row. Your healthcare provider will show you where to inject tesamorelin.
Do not reuse a needle or syringe. Place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container and dispose of it following state or local laws. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Never share a needle or syringe, even if you changed the needle. Sharing these devices can pass infections from person to person.
Your blood may need to be tested often, including your blood sugar and other medical tests.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Follow all other storage instructions provided with tesamorelin. Your healthcare provider can provide more information about how to store and dispose of this medicine.
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.