Vitrase (Hyaluronidase) is a prescription medication that is used as an adjunct in subcutaneous rehydration therapy, to increase absorption of other drugs and dyes, so they work better. Dehydration is caused by not drinking enough fluids or by losing more fluid than you take in. You can lose fluid through sweat, tears, diarrhea, or vomiting. The drug is also used as an aid to help the body absorb other injected medications. Vitrase is also used to help contrast dyes in the body show more clearly on certain X-rays or scans. The active ingredient in Vitrase is Hyaluronidase. Hyaluronidase belongs to a class of drugs called enzymes. It works by improving the absorption and dispersion of parenterally administered fluids, drugs, and contrast agents.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Vitrase from the United Kingdom in the strength of 1500IU solution for injection. The generic Hyaluronidase is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Vitrase. The most common side effects of Vitrase may include the following:
• Pain or redness at the injection site
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Swelling in your hands, feet, or other body areas
These are not all of the side effects of Vitrase. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not receive Vitrase if you are allergic to Hyaluronidase or any ingredient in Vitrase. Your doctor may require a skin test to check for hypersensitivity before administering the drug. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have bleeding disorder;
• Have kidney or liver problem
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Vitrase and other medicines, like furosemide, phenytoin, aspirin, estrogens, cortisone, antihistamines, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether Vitrase will harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Hyaluronidase passes into breast milk and if it may affect a nursing infant. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Vitrase is a powder solution for injection. This drug is injected under the skin, into a muscle, or other body tissues. Your doctor will administer this injection. This drug should not be injected into the vein. Store the unopened vial in a refrigerator at 20 – 80C (350 – 460F). Do not freeze. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.