Whether patients receive ERT or not, it is very important that they be monitored to see whether their symptoms are getting better or worse.

Patients receiving ERT have blood tests to measure their hemogloblin, platelets, and other levels. These tests are administered every 3 months for those who haven’t yet achieved their therapeutic goals.

For patients who have met their goals, the tests are performed every 12 to 24 months. The doctor will also perform these tests whenever he or she changes the dose of Cerezyme^® (imiglucerase for injection) therapy.

Patients not receiving ERT have these same tests about every 12 months.

Imaging tests (X-ray, CT scan, or magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]) are performed to measure spleen and liver volume, and to examine bones.

Important Safety Information

Approximately 15% of patients have developed immune responses (antibodies). These patients have a higher risk of an allergic reaction (hypersensitivity). Use Cerezyme® (imiglucerase for injection) carefully if you have had an allergic reaction to the product in the past. Symptoms suggestive of allergic reaction happened in 6.6% of patients, and include anaphylactoid reaction (a serious allergic reaction), itching, flushing, hives, an accumulation of fluid under the skin, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, coughing, cyanosis (a bluish discoloration of the skin due to diminished oxygen), and low blood pressure. Side effects related to Cerezyme administration have been reported in less than 15% of patients. Each of the following events occurred in less than 2% of the total patient population. Reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rash, fatigue, headache, fever, dizziness, chills, backache, and rapid heart rate. Because Cerezyme therapy is administered by intravenous infusion, reactions at the site of injection may occur: discomfort, itching, burning, swelling or uninfected abscess. Cerezyme is available by prescription only. For more information, consult your physician. To learn more, please see the full product information (PDF) or contact Genzyme at 1-800-745-4447.