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Vimizim

Generic name: elosulfase alfa [ EE-loe-SUL-face-AL-fa ]
Drug class: Lysosomal enzymes

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Dec 29, 2023.

What is Vimizim?

Vimizim contains an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body in healthy people. Some people lack this enzyme because of a genetic disorder. Elosulfase alfa helps replace this missing enzyme in such people.

Vimizim is used to treat some of the symptoms of a genetic condition called mucopolysaccharidosis IV (4) type A, or MPS IV A, also called Morquio A syndrome.

MPS IVA is a metabolic disorder in which the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down certain natural substances. These substances can build up in the body, causing enlarged organs, abnormal bone structure, changes in facial features, breathing problems, heart problems, vision or hearing loss, and changes in mental or physical abilities.

Vimizim may improve walking and stair-climbing ability in people with this condition. However, this medication is not a cure for MPS IVA.

Warnings

An allergic reaction may occur during or shortly after infusion of Vimizim. Tell your caregivers or get emergency medical help right away if you have any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as chest discomfort, cough, trouble breathing, vomiting, skin rash or redness, pale skin, blue lips or fingernails, and feeling like you might pass out.

You may be more likely to have a reaction to Vimizim if you have a breathing disorder, or if you are sick with a fever at the time of your infusion.

Your breathing, blood pressure, and other vital signs will be watched closely during and after the infusion, so your caregivers can quickly treat any serious side effects that occur.

Before taking this medicine

Your Vimizim infusion may be delayed if you have a fever or cold symptoms.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

It is not known whether elosulfase alf will harm an unborn baby. However, MPS symptoms can get worse during pregnancy and may cause medical problems in both mother and baby. The benefit of treating MPS may outweigh any risks to the baby.

Your name may need to be listed on a Morquio A Registry while you are using this medicine. The purpose of this registry is to track the progression of this disorder and the effects that elosulfase alfa has on long-term treatment of Morquio A syndrome. The registry also tracks the effects of elosulfase alfa on a baby if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Vimizim pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (more detail)

How is Vimizim given?

Vimizim is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

The infusion must be given slowly, and can take up to 4 hours or longer to complete.

Vimizim is usually given once per week. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Vimizim doses are based on weight (especially in children and teenagers). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.

About 30 to 60 minutes before each injection, you will be given other medications to help prevent a serious allergic reaction.

You will be watched closely after receiving Vimizim, to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IV:

2 mg/kg via IV infusion once a week

Comments:
-Pretreatment with antihistamines with or without antipyretics is recommended 30 to 60 minutes before starting the infusion.
-See Other Comments/Administration Advice for recommended dilution volume and infusion rates.

Use: For patients with mucopolysaccharidosis IVA (MPS IVA; Morquio A syndrome)

Usual Pediatric Dose for Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IV:

5 years or older: 2 mg/kg via IV infusion once a week

Comments:
-Pretreatment with antihistamines with or without antipyretics is recommended 30 to 60 minutes before starting the infusion.
-See Other Comments/Administration Advice for recommended dilution volume and infusion rates.

Use: For patients with mucopolysaccharidosis IVA (MPS IVA; Morquio A syndrome)

Detailed Vimizim dosage information

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your Vimizim injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Since this medication is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid while receiving Vimizim?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Vimizim side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Vimizim: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

An allergic reaction may occur during or shortly after infusion of this medicine (up to 3 hours later). Tell your caregivers or get emergency medical help right away if you have any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as:

Common Vimizim side effects may include:

Even though it may not be a side effect of Vimizim, increased pressure on the spinal cord is a complication of MPS IVA that may occur while you are using this medicine. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of spinal cord compression:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Vimizim side effects (more detail)

What other drugs will affect Vimizim?

Other drugs may interact with elosulfase alfa, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Vimizim only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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