Hylenex Clinical Drug Information -- Hylenex Product Information
Hylenex Recombinant Hyaluronidase Injection 150 Unit Dose Vial (Rx)
How to Order:
You will receive instructions on how to create an account along with Rx Ordering Details.
(Note: Acceptable licenses must have Prescriptive Authority in the license issuing state.)
Hylenex is a brand of hyaluronidase, an enzyme used to break down hyaluronic acid. It is often used in medical settings to enhance the absorption and dispersion of other injected drugs and fluids. Additionally, it can be used to facilitate subcutaneous fluid administration and improve the effectiveness of contrast dyes in imaging studies.
How Hylenex Works
Hylenex functions as a tissue permeability modifier by breaking down hyaluronic acid, a natural, gel-like substance found in the body's tissues. By temporarily degrading this component, Hylenex increases tissue permeability, allowing other injected substances to spread and be absorbed more efficiently.
Uses
-
Enhanced Absorption: Hylenex acts as an adjuvant to facilitate the quicker absorption of other injected fluids and medications, such as local anesthetics.
-
Hydration Support: It aids in the absorption of subcutaneous fluids, providing hydration for patients where intravenous administration is not possible.
-
Urography: Hylenex improves the absorption of radiopaque agents, enhancing the quality of certain X-rays and scans.
-
Cosmetic Applications: In the aesthetic field, it effectively dissolves hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, like Juvederm and Restylane, for patients dissatisfied with their results or experiencing complications.
Potential Side Effects
Common side effects may include temporary swelling, redness, pain, bruising, and tenderness at the injection site.
Important Considerations
-
Prescription Only: Hylenex is a prescription medication and should be administered by a qualified healthcare professional.
-
Reduced Allergic Reactions: As a recombinant human hyaluronidase produced in a lab, it presents a lower risk of allergic reactions compared to animal-derived formulations.
-
Filler Compatibility: Hylenex specifically targets hyaluronic acid disintegration and is ineffective on fillers made from other materials, such as calcium hydroxylapatite.
-
Drug Interactions: Patients must inform their healthcare provider about all current medications, as certain drugs may interact with Hylenex.
By understanding its applications and considerations, Hylenex can be effectively utilized for medical and cosmetic purposes. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.
Indications & Therapeutic Uses
- Increase absorption/dispersion of SC and IM drugs
- Adjunct to SC or IM fluid administration (hypodermoclysis)
- Subcutaneous insulin infusion enhancement
- Treatment of drug or fluid extravasation/infiltration
- Improvement of local anesthetic effect for minor procedures
- Facilitation of contrast media absorption in radiology/CT
Hylenex vs Vitrase: Key Differences
- Hylenex – Recombinant (non-animal), lower allergy risk, consistent supply, versatile use, and hospital pharmacy preference.
- Vitrase – Animal-derived (ovine/human), higher risk of allergic reaction, may have slightly different cost and supply chain issues.
- Clinical Outcome: Studies show Hylenex and Vitrase have similar efficacy, but Hylenex is often favored for safety and cost-effectiveness.
Dosage & Administration
-
Standard Dose: 150 Units (1 mL) per injection site (adults and children), administered subcutaneously.
- May be repeated in different sites as needed, up to prescribed volume.
- For enhancing dispersion: Inject just before or with the medication/solution.
- For extravasation: 150 Units (1 mL) injected at or around the infiltration site in a circular pattern, may repeat as directed.
-
Administration:
- Subcutaneous, using aseptic technique.
- Do NOT inject intravenously.
- May be administered by a qualified healthcare provider in hospital, clinic, or home infusion setting.
Side Effects & Safety Information
- Common Side Effects: Temporary swelling, redness, or pain at the injection site; mild itching; localized warmth.
- Rare but Serious: Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions (extremely rare with recombinant hyaluronidase), localized infection, transient edema, or mild fever.
- Contraindications: Known allergy to hyaluronidase; do not use to enhance absorption of toxic substances (e.g., vasoactive drugs, snake venom, etc.)
Cost Information
-
Hylenex Cost:
- Typically lower than animal-derived hyaluronidase (Vitrase) due to recombinant process and broad hospital contracts.
- Covered by many insurance plans and pharmacy benefit programs.
- Direct, wholesale, and patient-assistance pricing may be available through hospitals, clinics, or specialty pharmacies.
Product Details
- Name: Hylenex® Recombinant Hyaluronidase Injection
- Strength: 150 Units per 1 mL single-dose vial
- Manufacturer: Halozyme Therapeutics
- Route: Subcutaneous injection ONLY
- Supplied: 1 mL vials, Rx only, hospital and pharmacy standard
Order Hylenex™ Today—The Gold Standard for Filler Dissolution and Enhanced Medication Absorption! Experience Fast, Proven, and Safe Results with the #1 Hyaluronidase Injection.
