Kuvan and Alcohol Interaction

Kuvan and Alcohol

Kuvan generic name sapropterin is a synthetic form of a natural salt that aids in the function of a certain enzyme in the body for people with a condition known as phenylketonuria (PKU) as this enzyme is missing in the body. If this enzyme is not present the phenylaline levels can become elevated and cause many neurologic symptoms.

It is suggested that you discuss the drinking of alcohol with your physician while using this drug.

At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.

If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.

If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.

Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.

Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.

When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.

It is suggested that before taking this or any other drug you have a frank and honest discussion with your physician as to your drinking habits. This may be difficult as many alcoholics are in a state of denial as to their drinking habits.

I have also noticed that many alcoholics are not subject to the morning after illness that most of us suffer through when we drink too much. Severe alcoholics usually find if they feel “shakey” in the morning, a drink will make them feel more normal.

While using this drug your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

The complete treatment with Kuvan is to be complete with the inclusion of a special diet as there are specific foods that should be avoided.

Before starting this medicine you are advised to advise your physician if you are pregnant, plan to be so, are breastfeeding, allergic to this drug, any other drug or substance, liver disease, history of stomach ulcer or bleeding, have epilepsy or any other seizure disorder.

Note this drug may harm an unborn child.

Side Effects

Less serious side effects are nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, runny or stuffy nose, cough, headache, feeling agitated, dizziness or joint pain. If these occur call your physician for advice.

Serious side effects are severe allergic reaction such as hives, difficult breathing, itchy, rash, swelling of lips, tongue or throat, seizure, chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, ill feeling, easy bruising or bleeding, fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, swelling in hands or feet, pain or burning when you urinate, weakness or fainting, black bloody tarry stools, coughing up blood or granular vomiting. If these occur get emergency medical help.

This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.

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