iPlex

Generic name: mecasermin rinfabate [ meh-KAZ-er-men-RIN-fa-bayt ]
Drug class:Insulin-like growth factors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 28, 2021.

What is iPlex?

iPlex is a man-made form of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which is normally produced by the body. IGF-1 is important for the growth of bones and muscles.

iPlex is used to treat growth failure in children whose bodies do not make enough IGF-1.

iPlex may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Your child should not use iPlex if your child has cancer, has finished growing (the bone growth plates are closed), or has other causes of growth failure.

This medicine must be given 20 minutes before or after the child eats a meal or snack. Do not use the medicine if the meal or snack is not eaten for any reason. Wait until the child has eaten and 20 minutes have passed before giving the iPlex injection. iPlex may lower blood sugar levels if it is used without eating.

Always eat a meal or snack 20 minutes before or after injecting iPlex.

iPlex may cause a bone problem in the top of the upper leg. Get medical attention right away if your child develops a limp or has hip or knee pain.

Know the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and how to recognize them in your child. Always keep a source of sugar available in case your child has symptoms of low blood sugar. Sugar sources include orange juice, glucose gel, candy, or milk. Severe hypoglycemia may cause fainting, seizure (convulsions), or death. If your child has severe hypoglycemia and cannot eat or drink, give an injection of glucagon. Your doctor can give you a prescription for a glucagon emergency injection kit and tell you how to give the injection.

iPlex may cause a temporary increase in pressure within the brain. Call your doctor at once if your child has pain behind the eyes, and nausea with vomiting.

iPlex may worsen scoliosis. If your child has scoliosis, he or she will need to be checked often for an increase in the curve of the spine.

Before using iPlex

Your child should not use iPlex if the child:

• has finished growing (the bone growth plates are closed);

• has cancer; or

• has other causes of growth failure.

Before receiving iPlex, tell your child's doctor if the child has:

• diabetes;

• kidney problems;

• liver problems; or

• scoliosis (a curved spine).

If your child has any of these conditions, he or she may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use iPlex.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether iPlex passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. iPlex should not be used while breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use iPlex?

Use iPlex exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your child's prescription label.

Your child's docto