Pronunciation: im ih GLUE ker ase

Brand: Cerezyme

What is the most important information I should know about imiglucerase?


What is imiglucerase?

Imiglucerase is a man-made form of an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body. It is used as an enzyme replacement in people with Type I Gaucher disease.

Gaucher disease is a genetic condition in which the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down certain fatty materials (lipids). Lipids can build up in the body, causing symptoms such as easy bruising or bleeding, weakness, anemia, bone or joint pain, enlarged liver or spleen, or weakened bones that are easily fractured.

Imiglucerase may improve the condition of the liver, spleen, bones, and blood cells in people with Type I Gaucher disease. However, imiglucerase is not a cure for this condition.

Imiglucerase may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using imiglucerase?

You should not use imiglucerase if you are allergic to it.

To make sure imiglucerase is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • a breathing problem such as pneumonia or pulmonary hypertension.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether imiglucerase will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.

It is not known whether imiglucerase passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Imiglucerase should not be given to a child younger than 2 without a doctor's advice.

How should I use imiglucerase?


Imiglucerase is usually given every 2 weeks, but you may need the medicine more often when you first start using it. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

You may be given other medicines to prevent certain side effects of imiglucerase. Take these medicines exactly as directed.

Tell your doctor if you have any changes in weight. Imiglucerase doses are based on weight.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of imiglucerase.

What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while using imiglucerase?


What are the possible side effects of imiglucerase?



Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • fever, chills, cough with yellow or green mucus;
  • worsening or no improvement in your Gaucher disease symptoms.

Common side effects may include:

  • stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
  • fast heartbeats;
  • headache, dizziness;
  • back pain;
  • fever, chills, tired feeling;
  • mild rash; or

What other drugs will affect imiglucerase?


Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about imiglucerase.

