Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection.

This medicine should be given over 2-5 minutes.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Pain or fever reducers may relieve some side effects. Please speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Use effective birth control to avoid pregnancy.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients with weak hearts may have worsening of symptoms. If you notice difficulty breathing, weight gain, or swelling of your legs or ankles, let your doctor know right away.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 7 months after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 7 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

This medicine should be used with caution in patients with breathing difficulties.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• pain in the abdomen
• decreased appetite
• diarrhea
• headaches
• high blood pressure
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• mouth sores or irritation
• joint or muscle pain
• nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• bone pain
• wheezing or difficulty breathing
• chest pain
• confusion
• weakened heart; fluid in lungs
• cough that does not go away
• dizziness
• swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• fever or chills
• numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• fast or irregular heart beats
• mood changes
• shortness of breath
• red, peeling or blistering skin
• unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
• blurring or changes of vision
• weakness on one side of the body
• sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.