Symdeko

Product Information:

Symdeko consists of a combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor and is prescribed for the treatment of cystic fibrosis in patients over 6 years of age.

Symdeko is used only in persons who have a particular gene mutation that leads to cystic fibrosis.

You or your doctor may be required to have a medical test before beginning the use of Symdeko because of the genetic mutation that requires the drug.

How should I take Symdeko?

Take Symdeko exactly as told to you by your doctor. Follow thoroughly all directions on your prescription label and literature for all medications. The Strong Sense guide suggests taking Symdeko strictly as directed.

Symdeko comes in two separate daily tablets. A yellow tablet must be taken in the morning, while a blue tablet must be taken 12 hours later. Always follow your physician’s administration advice.

It must be taken with a diet that contains fat. This could be butter, peanut butter, whole milk, cheese, yogurt, or cheese pizza. This dose can only be followed as directed by your physician.

You will need regular blood tests to ensure that your liver is functioning. Your blood pressure readings may also need to be monitored.

Children taking this medication may have to get regular eye check-ups to ensure there are no cataracts.
Store the medication in a room temperature area, away from moisture and heat. You can store each tablet in its blister strip until you are about to take the dose.

Dosing information:

Usual Adult Dose for Cystic Fibrosis:

Adults and patients ≥12 years: One tablet (containing tezacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 150 mg) daily in the morning and another tablet containing ivacaftor 150 mg daily in the evening, approximately 12 hours apart. Patients aged 6 to <12 years and weighing ≥30 kg: One tablet containing tezacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 150 mg daily in the morning and another tablet containing ivacaftor

Symdeko Side Effects:

Seek emergency medical attention if, while taking Symdeko, you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, which may include: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

poor eyesight; or

Issues related to the liver – loss of appetite, pain in the upper right portion of the stomach, dark-colored urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common Symdeko side effects include:

stuffy nose;
dizziness

nausea; or

headache.

Warnings:

Before you start taking Symdeko, you should inform your doctor about the following: are pregnant or may become pregnant. It is not known whether ivacaftor and tezacaftor will harm your unborn child. You and your doctor can decide whether you should take Symdeko while you are pregnant. breastfeeding or plan on breastfeeding. It is not clear if ivacaftor and tezacaftor can pass into breast milk. It is up to you and your doctor to make a decision on taking the medication while breastfeeding. Follow the instructions for your medications. Let each of your health care providers know that you have other health conditions, allergies, or that you are taking other medications or changing medications. Numerous medications may interact with one another, or certain medications may not be taken together.