Left untreated, patients with PKU can have high blood Phe levels. High blood Phe levels are toxic to the brain and can lead to:

  • Lower intelligence
  • Decreased ability to focus
  • Decreased ability to remember
  • Decreased ability to organize information
  • Delayed speech
  • Decreased thinking speed
  • Slowed movements
  • Slowed reaction time
  • School problems
  • Depression
  • Phobias
  • Nervousness
  • Irritability

PKU is carefully managed with a Phe-restricted diet in order to limit the amount of Phe in the blood. In combination with a Phe-restricted diet, KUVAN, the only prescription medication for PKU, can offer an additional way to help lower blood Phe levels even more.

Next: Managing 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.

BIOMARIN