Key facts about Vyalev
What is Vyalev?
Vyalev is the brand name for foscarbidopa/foslevodopa and is available as a subcutaneous injection.
What dosages is Vyalev available in?
Vyalev is available as a subcutaneous injection containing 120 mg foscarbidopa and 2,400 mg foslevodopa per 10 mL (12 mg foscarbidopa and 240 mg foslevodopa per mL).
What is Vyalev used for?
Vyalev is a combination medication used for the treatment of motor fluctuations in adults with advanced Parkinson’s disease.
How does Vyalev work?
Parkinson’s disease is caused by low levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Foslevodopa in Vyalev is converted into dopamine in the body, while foscarbidopa helps the foslevodopa work more effectively and reduces its side effects.
How do I take Vyalev?
Vyalev is given by subcutaneous administration only, preferably in the abdomen, via the Vyafuser pump. The maximum recommended daily dose is 3,525 mg of foslevodopa (approximately 2,500 mg levodopa).
Is it safe for me to take Vyalev?
Vyalev is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication in the following:
- Patients who are currently taking a
- Nonselective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor or have recently (within 2
- Weeks) taken a nonselective MAO inhibitor.
Vyalev Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Vyalev:
- Infusion/catheter site reactions and infections
- Hallucinations
- Abnormal, involuntary, and uncontrolled muscle movement
Vyalev Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Vyalev. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Seeing things that are not there, hearing sounds or feeling sensations that are not real (hallucinations)
- Unusual urges
- Heart attack or other heart problems
- Worsening of the increased pressure in your eye (glaucoma)
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Vyalev
The following medications may interact with Vyalev:
- Selective MAO-B inhibitors
- Antihypertensive drugs
- Dopamine D2 receptor antagonists and isoniazid
Who makes Vyalev?
AbbVie Inc.
Is Vyalev safe in pregnancy?
It is not known whether this medication is safe for you and your unborn baby during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have plans on becoming pregnant. They will recommend what is best for you.
