Waylivra (volanesorsen)

Description

Waylivra (volanesorsen) is a prescription medication used to treat familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS), a rare genetic disorder that causes high levels of triglycerides (a type of fat) in the blood. FCS can lead to serious health problems, such as pancreatitis, heart disease, and stroke.

Waylivra works by blocking the production of apolipoprotein C-III (apoC-III), a protein that helps to transport triglycerides in the blood. By blocking the production of apoC-III, Waylivra can help to lower triglyceride levels and reduce the risk of serious health problems associated with FCS.

Uses

Waylivra is used to treat FCS in adults and children 6 years of age and older.

How to use

Waylivra is administered by subcutaneous injection (under the skin) once per week. The dose of Waylivra is determined by your doctor based on your individual needs.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose of Waylivra is 300 mg once per week. Your doctor may increase or decrease your dose as needed.

Mechanism of action

Waylivra works by blocking the production of apolipoprotein C-III (apoC-III), a protein that helps to transport triglycerides in the blood. By blocking the production of apoC-III, Waylivra can help to lower triglyceride levels and reduce the risk of serious health problems associated with FCS.

Storage conditions

Waylivra should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze Waylivra.

Precautions

Waylivra may cause serious side effects, including:

• Allergic reactions: If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or dizziness, stop taking Waylivra and seek medical attention immediately.
• Kidney problems: Waylivra can cause kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your doctor will monitor your kidney function while you are taking Waylivra.
• Liver problems: Waylivra can cause liver problems, including liver failure. Your doctor will monitor your liver function while you are taking Waylivra.
• Pancreatitis: Waylivra can cause pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas. If you experience any signs of pancreatitis, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever, stop taking Waylivra and seek medical attention immediately.

Interactions

Waylivra may interact with other medications you are taking, including:

• Anticoagulants: Waylivra may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants, such as warfarin.
• Statins: Waylivra may increase the risk of muscle problems when taken with statins, such as atorvastatin and simvastatin.
• Other lipid-lowering medications: Waylivra may interact with other lipid-lowering medications, such as fibrates and niacin.

It is important to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before you start taking Waylivra.

Contraindications

Waylivra is contraindicated in people with a known allergy to volanesorsen.

Side effects

The most common side effects of Waylivra include:

• Injection site reactions: redness, pain, swelling, and itching at the injection site
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Back pain
• Muscle pain

These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. If you experience any side effects that are severe or do not go away, tell your doctor.

Overdose

There have been no reports of overdose with Waylivra. If you overdose on Waylivra, contact your doctor or poison control center immediately.

Conclusion

Waylivra is a prescription medication used to treat familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS), a rare genetic disorder that causes high levels of triglycerides (a type of fat) in the blood. Waylivra is administered by subcutaneous injection (under the skin) once per week. The most common side effects of Waylivra include injection site reactions, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, back pain, and muscle pain.