EGRIFTA SV®: A unique mechanism of action that helps break down excess visceral abdominal fat in PWHIV
GH deficiency has been observed in PWHIV.
GH plays an important role in the formation and function of fat cells as well as the overall regulation of fat metabolism.1
EGRIFTA SV® is an analog of GHRH that stimulates the body to secrete its own GH in a pulsatile manner, resulting in both anabolic and lipolytic effects.2
EGRIFTA SV® stimulates endogenous GH secretion without changing the pulse frequency; mimicking the body's natural hormone release.3
The solution to excess visceral abdominal fat may not be diet and exercise alone.
GH = growth hormone; GHRH = growth hormone releasing hormone; IGF = insulin‑like growth factor; PWHIV = people with HIV.
References:
Stanley TL, Grinspoon SK. Effects of growth hormone‑releasing hormone on visceral fat, metabolic, and cardiovascular indices in human studies. Growth Horm IGF Res. 2015;25(2):59-65.
EGRIFTA SV® (tesamorelin for injection) Prescribing Information. Theratechnologies Inc. October 2019.
Stanley TL, Chen CY, Branch KL, et al. Effects of a growth hormone‑releasing hormone analog on endogenous GH pulsatility and insulin sensitivity in healthy men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011;96(1):150-158.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (Please see below for full limitations of use and additional important safety information)
Indication
EGRIFTA SV® is indicated for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV‑infected adult patients with lipodystrophy.
Limitations of Use:
The impact and safety of EGRIFTA SV® on cardiovascular health have not been studied.
EGRIFTA SV® is not indicated for weight loss management.
It is not known whether taking EGRIFTA SV® helps improve compliance with anti‑retroviral medications.
Contraindications:
Do not use EGRIFTA SV® if patient:
Has a pituitary gland tumor, has had pituitary gland surgery, has other problems related to their pituitary gland, or has had radiation treatment to their head or a head injury.
Has active cancer.
Is allergic to tesamorelin or any of the ingredients in EGRIFTA SV®.
Is pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Warnings and Precautions
Increased risk of neoplasms: Preexisting malignancy should be inactive, and its treatment complete prior to starting EGRIFTA SV®. EGRIFTA SV® should be discontinued if the patient has evidence of recurrent malignancy.
Elevated IGF‑1: Monitor regularly IGF‑1 levels in all patients during EGRIFTA SV® therapy. Consider discontinuing in patients with persistent elevations (e.g., >3 SDS).
Fluid retention: May include edema, arthralgia, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Glucose intolerance or diabetes mellitus: May develop with EGRIFTA SV® use. Evaluate glucose status prior to and during therapy with EGRIFTA SV®.
Hypersensitivity reactions: Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention and discontinue treatment if suspected.
Injection site reactions: Advise patients to rotate injection sites to different areas of the abdomen to decrease injection site reactions.
Increased mortality in patients with acute critical illness: Consider discontinuation in critically ill patients.
Drug Interactions
EGRIFTA SV® had no significant impact on the pharmacokinetic profiles of simvastatin in healthy subjects.
Monitor patients for potential interactions when administering EGRIFTA SV® in combination with other drugs known to be metabolized by CYP450 liver enzyme.
Patients on glucocorticoids may require dosage adjustment upon initiation of EGRIFTA SV®.
Use in Specific Populations
Lactation: Mothers should not breastfeed if they receive EGRIFTA SV®.
Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric Use: There is no information on the use of EGRIFTA SV® in patients greater than 65 years of age.
Renal and Hepatic Impairment: Use in renal and hepatic impairment has not been studied.
Adverse Reactions
The most commonly reported adverse reactions include injection site reactions, arthralgia, pain in extremity, myalgia, and peripheral edema.
To report suspected adverse reactions, contact THERA patient support® at 1‑833‑23THERA (1‑833‑238-4372) or FDA at 1‑800‑FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
