Hylenex

Generic name: hyaluronidase (injection) [ HYE-al-ure-ON-i-dase ]
Brand names: Amphadase, Hylenex
Drug class: Miscellaneous uncategorized agents

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Oct 1, 2023.

What is Hylenex?

Hylenex is a genetically designed protein.

Hylenex is used together with fluids injected into the body to treat dehydration. Hyaluronidase can also be used as an aid in helping your body absorb other injected medications.

Hylenex is also used to help contrast dyes in your body show more clearly on certain types of x-rays or scans.

Warnings

Serious drug interactions can occur when certain medicines are used together with Hylenex. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines.

Before receiving Hylenex, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs: furosemide (Lasix); phenytoin (Dilantin); a sedative or anxiety medication (such as Valium, Xanax, Tranxene); aspirin or salicylates; cortisone or ACTH (Corticotropin); estrogens; or an antihistamine (such as a cold or allergy medicine).

Your doctor may perform a skin test before using Hylenex to see if you are allergic to hyaluronidase.

Before receiving this medicine

You should not be treated with Hylenex if you are allergic to hyaluronidase.

Your doctor may perform a skin test to see if you are allergic to hyaluronidase before you receive the medication.

Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with Hylenex. Your doctor may need to change your treatment plan if you use any of the following drugs:

• furosemide (Lasix);

• phenytoin (Dilantin);

• a sedative or anxiety medication (such as diazepam, lorazepam, alprazolam, Valium, Xanax, Ativan, Tranxene, and others);

• aspirin or salicylates;

• cortisone or ACTH (Corticotropin);

• estrogens; or

• an antihistamine (such as a cold or allergy medicine).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It may not be safe to breast-feed while using Hylenex. Ask your doctor about any risk.

Related/similar drugs

dexrazoxane, hyaluronidase, Amphadase, Hydase, Vitrase, Totect

How is Hylenex given?

Hylenex is injected under the skin, into a muscle, or into other tissues of the body.

A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Hylenex should not be injected into a vein (as an intravenous injection).

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because you will receive Hylenex in a clinical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid after receiving Hylenex?

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

Hylenex side effects

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

Call your doctor at once if you experience any of the following common Hylenex side effects:

• swelling in your hands, feet, or other body areas; or

• pain, swelling, itching, or redness where the injection was given.

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.

What other drugs will affect Hylenex?

Other drugs may interact with hyaluronidase, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Frequently asked questions

• Do Herceptin (trastuzumab) injections hurt?

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Hylenex 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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