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Information for Patients & Caregivers
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What is Phenylketonuria?

Importance of Phe


Managing PKU


KUVAN

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What is Phenylketonuria?

The problem and the answer

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a condition in which the body cannot process phenylalanine (Phe), an amino acid found in many foods. This can lead to too much Phe in the blood. Left untreated, high blood Phe levels can affect the brain, impair thinking, and cause behavioral problems.

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.

This site can provide you with helpful information about PKU and Kuvan, but should not take the place of careful discussion with your health care professional, who is the best source of information about your condition and possible treatment. More on KUVAN.


Know more about PKU and how to manage your Phe

The more you know about PKU, the better decisions you, your doctor, and dietitian will be able to make about how to manage it. Together, you can decide if KUVAN is a good choice for your PKU management.
What Causes PKU?

Indication

KUVAN® (sapropterin dihydrochloride) Tablets are 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 low-Phe 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 your diet and blood Phe levels 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.


This site is intended for use by U.S. residents only.

KUVAN® is a registered trademark of BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. Developed in collaboration with Asubio Pharma Co., Ltd.
©2010 BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. All rights reserved.