Know more. Manage better.
- Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a condition in which the body can’t process phenylalanine
(Phe), an amino acid found in food. This can lead to too much Phe in the blood.
Read more about PKU.
- Left untreated, high blood Phe levels from PKU can affect the brain, impair thinking,
and cause behavioral problems.
Read more about the importance of PKU management.
- PKU is carefully managed with a Phe-restricted diet in order to limit the amount
of Phe in the blood. KUVAN is the first and only prescription medicine
of its kind. KUVAN, used in conjunction with diet, may help you lower your blood
Phe levels more than the use of diet alone.
Read more about managing PKU.
The more you know about PKU, the better decisions you and your healthcare provider
will be able to make about how to manage it. Together, you can decide if KUVAN is
a good choice for your PKU management.
Next: What Is PKU?
Want more information about PKU?
Visit PKU.com, an informative online resource from BioMarin, the
makers of KUVAN. In addition to in-depth information about PKU and how it’s managed,
you can register for access to exclusive features such as discussion forums, customized
recipes, a personalized message in-box, and more.
Indication
KUVAN® (sapropterin dihydrochloride) Tablets is approved to reduce blood Phe levels
in patients with hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) due to tetrahydrobiopterin- (BH4-)
responsive Phenylketonuria (PKU). KUVAN is to be used in conjunction with a Phe-restricted diet.
Important Safety Information
High blood Phe levels are toxic to the brain and can lead to lower intelligence
and decrease in the ability to focus, remember and organize information. Any change
you make to your diet may impact your blood Phe level. Follow your doctor’s instructions
carefully. Your doctor and dietitian will continue to monitor and may adjust your
diet throughout your treatment with KUVAN.
If you have a fever, or if you are sick, your Phe level may go up. Tell your doctor
and dietitian as soon as possible so they can see if they have to adjust your treatment
to help keep your blood Phe levels in the desired range.
KUVAN is a prescription medicine and should not be taken by people who are allergic
to any of its ingredients. Tell your doctor if you have ever had liver or kidney
problems, are nursing or pregnant or may become pregnant, have poor nutrition or
are anorexic. Your doctor will decide if KUVAN is right for you. Tell your doctor
about all the medicines you take.
The most common side effects reported when using KUVAN are headache, diarrhea, abdominal
pain, upper respiratory tract infection (like a cold), throat pain, vomiting, and
nausea.
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. at 1-866-906-6100, or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Please read the full Patient Information by clicking here.