What is SOMAVERT?
SOMAVERT® (pegvisomant for injection) is a medicine used to treat
acromegaly. SOMAVERT decreases the action of growth hormone (GH) and levels of IGF-I
(Insulin-like Growth Factors) circulating in the blood. This helps to control acromegaly.
SOMAVERT is indicated for the treatment of acromegaly in patients who have had an
inadequate response to surgery and/or radiation therapy and/or other medical therapies,
or for whom these therapies are not appropriate. The goal of treatment is to normalize
serum IGF-I levels.
It helps stop your body from making too much IGF-I, which can help with some of
your symptoms.
Has SOMAVERT been shown to be effective?
In an important clinical trial, groups of patients treated with SOMAVERT had a decrease
in IGF-I levels compared with placebo. More patients receiving SOMAVERT achieved
normalized IGF-I levels compared with placebo. SOMAVERT also improved total score
for the 5 signs and symptoms in all patient groups compared with placebo. The signs
and symptoms are soft tissue swelling, joint pain, headaches, sweating, and fatigue.
How will I know if my IGF-I levels are controlled?
Your doctor will monitor your IGF-I levels regularly. Based on your IGF-I levels,
your
doctor may change your dose of SOMAVERT to get better control and help normalize
IGF-I levels.
Please see Full Prescribing
Information.