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Zavesca (MIH-glue-stat) is used to treat adults with mild to moderate type 1 Gaucher disease. Zavesca is only used in people who cannot be treated with enzyme replacement therapy. Type 1 Gaucher disease is a disease you get from both your parents. People with type 1 Gaucher disease are missing an enzyme (naturally occurring substance in your body) that breaks down a chemical in your body called glucosylceramide. Too much glucosylceramide causes liver and spleen enlargement, changes in the blood, and bone disease. Zavesca works by stopping the body from making glucosylceramide. Zavesca is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms: Capsules (U.S.)
Zavesca is used to treat Gaucher disease (a condition in which a certain fatty substance is not broken down normally in the body and instead builds up in some organs and causes liver, spleen, bone, and blood problems). Zavesca is in a class of medications called enzyme inhibitors. It works by preventing the body from producing the fatty substance so that less of it will build up in the body and cause symptoms. Zavesca comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food and with plenty of water up to three times a day. To help you remember to take Zavesca, take it at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Zavesca exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole; do not split, chew, or crush them. Zavesca controls Gaucher disease but does not cure it. Continue to take Zavesca even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Zavesca without talking to your doctor. Brand names: - Miglustat - Zavesca |