Tepezza®
(teprotumumab-trbw)
Tepezza is an FDA-approved intravenous medication used for the treatment of Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). It works by inhibiting the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor, providing relief from symptoms like eye bulging, double vision, and inflammation, regardless of the disease's duration or activity.
How Tepezza Is Administered
Tepezza is given as an infusion directly into your vein by a healthcare provider. The first dose is based on your body weight, followed by a larger dose every three weeks. You will receive a total of eight infusions to complete the treatment.
Each infusion takes about 60 to 90 minutes. The first two infusions are typically slower (around 90 minutes) to make sure your body tolerates the medication well. After that, if there are no problems, the infusion time may be shortened to about 60 minutes.
Your healthcare provider will monitor you during and after the infusion for any side effects, such as feeling hot, increased heart rate, or headaches. If you experience any symptoms during your treatment, let your healthcare team know right away.
Learn more about how Tepezza is given on the official Tepezza website.
How Tepezza Works
Tepezza works by targeting and blocking the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), which plays a key role in Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). By inhibiting IGF-1R, Tepezza helps reduce the inflammation and abnormal immune response associated with TED. This action can lead to a reduction in symptoms such as eye bulging (proptosis), double vision, and discomfort.
Learn more about how Tepezza works on the official Tepezza website.
Side Effects and Important Safety Information
Infusion Reactions: Infusion reactions can occur during or within 24 hours after a Tepezza treatment. Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms during or after treatment:
High blood pressure
Fast heartbeat
Redness of the face or feeling hot
Difficulty breathing
Headache
Muscle pain
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): If you have IBD, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, Tepezza may worsen your symptoms. Let your doctor know if you have a history of IBD before starting treatment.
Blood Sugar: Tepezza may raise blood sugar levels. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor if you have diabetes or high blood sugar. It is important to follow your prescribed treatment and diet for glucose control.
Hearing Problems: Tepezza may cause severe hearing problems, including hearing loss, which in some cases may be permanent. Notify your doctor if you experience any changes in your hearing.
Tepezza and Pregnancy: Before receiving Tepezza, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Tepezza may harm your unborn baby and should not be used during pregnancy. Women who can become pregnant should use effective contraception before starting treatment, during treatment, and for at least six months after the final dose.
Learn more about Tepezza’s side effects and safety on the official Tepezza website.
