Metreleptin Injection

What is this medication?

METRELEPTIN (met re LEP tin) treats low levels of leptin in people with generalized lipodystrophy, a condition that causes a lack of fat tissue in the body. It works by increasing leptin levels in your body. Leptin is a hormone made by fat cells that helps balance hunger levels and energy use.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): MYALEPT

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Bone marrow problems
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• High triglyceride levels
• History of pancreatitis
• Immune system problems
• Infection
• Liver disease
• Low blood cell levels (white cells)
• Obesity not caused by a congenital leptin deficiency
• Pancreatic disease
• Swollen lymph nodes
• An unusual or allergic reaction to metreleptin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give it. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Certain medications for diabetes, such as insulin, glipizide, or glyburide
• Certain medications that prevent or treat blood clots, such as warfarin
• Cyclosporine
• Estrogen and progestin hormones
• Theophylline

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Keep taking this medication unless your care team tells you to stop.

Talk to your care team about your risk of cancer. You may be more at risk for certain types of cancers if you take the medication.

This medication may affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your care team before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medication. Learn the symptoms of low and high blood sugar and how to manage them.

Estrogen and progestin hormones may not work as well while you are taking this medication. If you are using these hormones for contraception, talk to your care team about using a second type of contraception. A barrier contraceptive, such as a condom or diaphragm, is recommended.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

You will be instructed on how to store this medication. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of the medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.