See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including VPRIV Infusion treatments.
VPRIV is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:
- Pediatric and adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Type 1 Gaucher disease that results in one or more of the following conditions:
- anemia
- thrombocytopenia
- bone disease
What is VPRIV?
VPRIV (velaglucerase alfa) is a prescription medication administered for patients in all IVX Health centers via IV infusion.
How VPRIV Works
People with Gaucher disease type 1 may not have acid beta-glucocerebrosidase, the enzyme that breaks down a fatty substance called glucosylceramide (GL-1). This deficiency can cause a buildup of GL-1 in organs such as the spleen and liver as well as in the bones.
VPRIV replaces the missing enzyme, breaking down GL-1 into its more basic elements — glucose and ceremide, which can be naturally removed from the body.
VPRIV Infusion Dosage & Administration
Patients receive velaglucerase alfa intravenously. Treatment time for a VPRIV infusion at a medical clinic like IVX Health usually lasts around 60 minutes.
Dosage and Frequency
Before receiving their first intravenous infusion of VPRIV, the ordering physician determines the patient’s dose. This dose depends on the patient’s weight and condition severity. VPRIV is dosed every other week.
Administering VPRIV via IV Infusion
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The nurse prepares the patient’s arm by wiping the site with an alcohol pad to clean the skin before inserting an IV.
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Following IV insertion, the catheter is held in place with tape.
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Next, the nurse attaches the patient’s medication tubing to the IV site.
Every half-an-hour, the patient’s nurse takes his or her vitals.
VPRIV Side Effects
As with all medications, side effects are possible.
Possible side effects include:
- Life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- High blood pressure
- Nausea
- Tiredness/weakness
- Fever
- Chest discomfort
- Difficulty breathing
- Itching
- Vomiting
These side effects range in prevalence and many are rare.
Preparing for Your VPRIV Infusion
Follow these steps to prepare for your VPRIV Infusion:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
- Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Infusion.
- Pre-Infusion Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Infusion tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Pre-Infusion Medications
- Prescription Pre-Medications: Your VPRIV Infusion may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.
- Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Infusion as directed.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Infusion to ensure you are well-hydrated.
- Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Infusion to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
Prepare for Comfort
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Infusion site.
- Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.
Plan for Transportation
- Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Infusion, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your VPRIV Infusion is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
How to Get a Referral for VPRIV
Every VPRIV Infusion referral must be accompanied by a physician’s order for treatment.
Patient information should include:
- Name
- Current address
- Home and mobile phone number
- Insurance information
Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for therapy:
- Patient’s name and DOB
- Order date
- Diagnosis
- Physician’s name and NPI#
- Office address, phone, and fax numbers
- Provider’s signature
Clinical documentation from the physician should include information to support a diagnosis for one or more of the following:
- Pediatric and adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Type 1 Gaucher disease that results in one or more of the following conditions:
- anemia
- thrombocytopenia
- bone disease
If you or someone you care about has one of the conditions that VPRIV treats, IVX Health would be honored to provide your care. To find an IVX Health center near you, please click here.
Patients choose IVX Health for ongoing VPRIV treatments because:
- ALL private suites
- Comfortable recliners, with chairs for guests
- Evening & weekend appointments
- Friendly clinical staff deliver personal service
- Big screen TVs, high-speed WiFi, free snacks
Interested in moving your care to IVX Health?
Interested?
IVX Health would love to learn more about your care needs. If you’re interested in switching your infusion services – or if you just want to learn more – let us know.
