For multiple sclerosis.
Brand Name(s): Copaxone, Glatopa
Generic Name: Glatiramer Acetate
Instructions
This medicine is injected into the skin. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist where on your body this medicine can be injected and how to inject it.
Always inspect the medicine before using.
The liquid should be clear or light yellow.
Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.
Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Keep the medicine in its original container.
If the medicine becomes frozen, you will need to throw it away.
Remove from refrigerator 20 minutes before use to warm up to room temperature.
Injecting cold drug may be uncomfortable.
Discard unused medicine after 30 days at room temperature.
Never use any medicine that has expired.
Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.
Wait at least one week before reusing any injection site.
It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.
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.
Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Cautions
During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
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.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.
Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist how to safely discard unused medicines, needles and syringes.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
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.
- feeling of heat or flushing
- headaches
- change in the amount of fat under the skin around the injection site
- pain, redness, swelling near injection
- pain in the joints
- nausea
- nervousness
- rapid heartbeat
- shortness of breath
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- shallow, irregular breathing
- chest pain
- changes in memory, mood, or thinking
- swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
- fainting
- fever or chills
- signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
- mood changes
- shakiness
- blurring or changes of vision
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.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about GLATIRAMER - INJECTION
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Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.