Voxzogo ^*

Voxzogo is administered as a subcutaneous injection once per day. This means it is injected into the fatty layer of tissue under the skin. Caregivers are trained to prepare the medication from a powder and liquid and inject it at home. The injection site, such as the stomach, thighs, or buttocks, should be changed daily to prevent skin irritation. It should be given at about the same time each day for consistency.

The primary benefit of Voxzogo is its ability to increase linear growth in children with achondroplasia. By targeting the underlying mechanism that restricts bone growth in this condition, Voxzogo helps children grow taller than they would have without treatment. This can lead to improved physical function and proportionality. The treatment works as long as the child’s growth plates remain open and they are still growing.

Voxzogo vials must be stored properly to remain effective. Unopened and unmixed vials of Voxzogo should be kept in a refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze the medication. After it is mixed, it should be used immediately. If not used right away, it can be stored for up to 3 hours in the refrigerator.

Voxzogo is not a cure for achondroplasia, which is a genetic condition. Instead, Voxzogo is a long-term treatment that addresses the effect of the gene mutation on bone growth. It helps to increase the rate of growth and the final adult height of the child. The medication works only while it is being taken and does not alter the underlying genetic cause of the condition.

If your child misses a dose of Voxzogo, you should administer the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day. However, you must not give two doses on the same day to make up for a missed one. Simply resume the regular daily dosing schedule the following day. Maintaining a consistent schedule is important for the best results, so try to give the injection at the same time each day.

Yes, Voxzogo can cause a temporary decrease in blood pressure, or hypotension, in some children. This side effect typically occurs within the first hour after the injection and may cause dizziness or fainting. To help prevent this, it is recommended that your child has a snack and drinks some fluid about 30 minutes before receiving their daily Voxzogo injection. This helps maintain stable blood pressure.

The correct dose of Voxzogo is determined by a pediatric specialist based on the child’s body weight. As the child grows and their weight changes, the doctor will adjust the dosage accordingly. This ensures the child always receives the optimal amount of medication to be effective and safe. It is very important to use the exact dose prescribed by the doctor and never change it without medical guidance.

A child will typically continue to take Voxzogo for several years. The treatment is effective as long as the child’s epiphyseal growth plates are still open and they have the potential for further growth. Your child’s doctor will monitor their bone growth with periodic X-rays. Treatment with Voxzogo is usually stopped once the doctor confirms that the growth plates have closed, which typically happens after puberty.

The most common side effects associated with Voxzogo are generally mild to moderate. These include reactions at the injection site, such as redness, pain, bruising, or swelling. Other frequent side effects are vomiting and a temporary drop in blood pressure. Most of these effects can be managed with guidance from your doctor. They often lessen as the body adjusts to the medication over time.

Voxzogo is approved for use in individuals with achondroplasia whose growth plates are still open. Because most adults have growth plates that are already fused or closed, Voxzogo would not be effective for them. The medication works by stimulating growth in active cartilage in the plates. Therefore, it is intended for use in children and adolescents who are still in their growing years.

While on Voxzogo, your child will need regular monitoring by their healthcare team. This includes tracking their growth, weight, and blood pressure. The doctor will also perform periodic physical examinations and may order annual X-rays of the hand and wrist. These tests help the doctor assess bone age and determine if the growth plates are still open, ensuring the treatment remains appropriate and effective for your child.

Voxzogo may have interactions with other medications, so it is important to inform your doctor about everything your child takes. This includes all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. The doctor will review these to ensure there are no potential negative interactions. They can provide guidance on how to safely manage your child’s medications while they are being treated with Voxzogo.