Teduglutide
Generic name: teduglutide [ TE-due-GLOO-tide ]
Brand name: Gattex
Dosage form: subcutaneous kit (5 mg)
Drug class:Miscellaneous GI agents
What is teduglutide?
Teduglutide is used to treat short bowel syndrome in adults and children at least 1 year old who depend on intravenous (parenteral) feeding to receive nutrition.
Teduglutide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Teduglutide may increase your risk of colon polyps (in your large intestine). You will need a colonoscopy before and during treatment with teduglutide. Teduglutide may also increase your risk of certain types of cancer. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of teduglutide.
Call your doctor at once if you have severe constipation, stomach cramps, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.
Before taking this medicine
Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medicine.
Teduglutide can cause any abnormal cells in your body to grow faster. Some abnormal cells could become cancerous, increasing your risk of cancer of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or intestines. Ask your doctor about your specific risk.
Teduglutide may also increase your risk of polyps in your colon (large intestine). You will need a colonoscopy before and during treatment with teduglutide.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
cancer;
polyps in your intestines or rectum;
a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines), a colostomy or ileostomy;
heart problems, high blood pressure;
kidney disease; or
problems with your gallbladder or pancreas.
Short bowel syndrome can increase your risk of malnutrition during pregnancy. This could lead to premature delivery, low birth weight, birth defects, or other complications in both mother and baby. Follow your doctor's instructions about using this medicine if you are pregnant.
You should not breastfeed while using this medicine.
How is teduglutide given?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Use the medicine at the same time each day.
Teduglutide is injected under the skin. A healthcare provider may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself or how to give an injection to a child ...
