Glatiramer acetate - Subcutaneous

Glatiramer acetate is used to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (a certain type of disease affecting the brain and/or spinal cord).

Glatiramer acetate is to be injected subcutaneously (into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen area).

Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you. If you or your caregiver had been given the proper training on the preparation and injection techniques of this medicine, you or your caregiver may do the administration.

Use Glatiramer acetate exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not administer more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Remember to rotate the injection sites. Do not inject into the same area all the time. New injection sites should be at least 1.5 inches away from the previous injection site. Do not inject near the navel (belly button). Do not administer into moles, or areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, hard, or scarred.

This medicine is available as a pre-filled syringe or may be used with a compatible device called autoinjector. Make sure you know how to use the specific device you have been given. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on the severity of your condition and your response to the medication.

Glatiramer acetate must be administered regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.

Inject the missed dose as soon as you remember and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you forgot to administer your dose.

Do not use Glatiramer acetate if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or mannitol.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• heart problems
• kidney disease
• liver disease

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.

• Screening tests for TB (lung infection known as tuberculosis) may be done before treatment to know if this medicine is suited for you to use.
• Regular monitoring of allergic reactions after dose administration, during treatment, and months or years after starting treatment, may also be needed.

Glatiramer acetate may cause any of the following side effects: headache, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, back or joint pain, and redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• fever, chills or sweating, very bad sore throat, mouth sores, cough
• yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, dark coloured urine, tiredness, swelling in the legs and ankles
• damage or pain to the fatty tissue under your skin

This medicine may cause a rare but serious allergic reaction. This reaction can occur shortly after administration, anytime during treatment, or even months up to years after starting Glatiramer acetate therapy. If you develop rashes, fast heartbeat, chest pain, breathlessness, swollen face, mouth or eyes, stop using this medicine and alert your doctor immediately.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol.

Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C.

Do not freeze Glatiramer acetate otherwise, it will no longer be effective and should not be used.

If needed, this medicine may be stored at room temperature (between 15-30°C) for up to 1 month.

Protect from light or heat.

If you notice that the injection has changed colour or has become cloudy, do not use it. Throw it away and use a new injection.

Once opened, use this medicine immediately. Throw away any unused solution.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.