Instructions
This drug can, on occasion, be administered in a hospital or clinic setting by a doctor or a nurse, but can also be used at home. If you are taking this drug at home, make sure that the health care facility overseeing your treatment has provided you with all the necessary information regarding its administration. It is very important that you comply with the directions for use to fully benefit from the effects of this drug and to limit any adverse reactions.
Use this medication regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects. If you forget a dose, simply skip it and then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not double the next dose to catch up.
This product must be injected under the skin (subcutaneously), according to the technique you were shown. Be sure to choose a different injection site each time. Dispose of used syringes and needles safely. Your pharmacist can tell you the best way to do this.
Side Effects
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:
- it may cause headaches;
- it may cause joint pain;
- it may cause redness and swelling at the injection site;
- it may cause stomach ache;
- it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;
- it may cause a cough.
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.
Storage
Keep this product in the refrigerator. If stored at room temperature, it will remain effective for 30 days only. This product must be kept in its original packaging. Do not transfer it to another container. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.
Additionnal Information
Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed.
Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method during treatment and for several weeks after the end of it. Ask your health care professional for details.
A treatment with this medication requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.
Blood tests must be done regularly while using this medication. A blood sample will indicate whether your treatment is having the desired effect. It will also provide the necessary information for adjusting the dosage to the lowest effective dose, thus decreasing the risk of adverse effects. Be sure to keep all your appointments.
General Notes
When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:
- Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
- If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
- If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
- The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.