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Overview: Loargys is used to treat arginase 1 deficiency (ARG1-D), which is a rare genetic condition. It works by replacing an enzyme that is lacking in people with ARG1-D. Common side effects of Loargys include vomiting, fever, and constipation. Get help right away if you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, a rash, or swelling of the face, mouth, or throat. Loargys is given either as an infusion into a vein or as an injection under the skin.

Uses

What is Loargys used for?

Loargys (pegzilarginase-nbln) is commonly used to treat high arginine levels in people with a rare genetic condition called arginase 1 deficiency (ARG1-D).

Managing Arginase 1 Deficiency With Loargys

Loargys may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does Loargys work (mechanism of action)?

Arginase 1 deficiency (ARG1-D) is a rare inherited condition. People with this condition are completely or partially missing a protein (enzyme) that breaks down the amino acid arginine in the body. This leads to high levels of arginine, which can lead to seizures and other problems. Loargys works by replacing the missing enzyme, which helps break down arginine and lowers arginine levels in the blood.

How is Loargys supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Loargys

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 2 mg/0.4 mL solution for injection
  • 5 mg/mL solution for injection

How should I store Loargys?

Loargys should be stored in a refrigerator, between 36 F and 46 F (2 C and 8 C). If you are storing Loargys at home, keep it in the original container to protect it from light. Do not freeze or shake the medicine.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Loargys?

The most common side effects of Loargys are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Infusion reactions (see below)
  • Constipation

There may be other side effects of Loargys that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Loargys?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Loargys are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Loargys may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. This may happen at any time during treatment. Get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Infusion Reactions. Loargys can cause reactions that can be serious when it is given to you. Your infusion may need to be slowed or stopped if you have these reactions. Tell your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms during or after getting your infusion.  

  • Itching or skin rash
  • Arm swelling
  • Stomach pain 
  • Redness of your face and neck
  • Trouble breathing
  • Swelling of the face

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Loargys?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use Loargys.

  • Loargys 
  • Pegzilarginase-nbln
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Loargys.

What should I know about Loargys before using it?

Loargys is usually given by a health care provider in a hospital or clinic. It is given either as an infusion into a vein (IV) or as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous).

If you do well after receiving regular doses of Loargys under the skin, you may be able to inject the medicine yourself at home. If this is an option for you, your health care provider will show you how to prepare and inject the medicine. Use it as prescribed. 

If you use Loargys at home, do not share it with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep Loargys out of the reach of children. If you are using this medicine at home, it should be kept in a refrigerator, so take special precautions to keep it away from children who also use the refrigerator.

Your health care provider may tell you to take certain medicines before each dose of Loargys to help reduce the risk of an allergic reaction or other side effects. Follow any instructions from your health care provider closely. 

Keep all appointments with your health care provider, including for blood work, before and while using Loargys.

Loargys is meant to be used along with a special diet that limits how much protein you eat. Talk with your health care provider about any dietary changes you need to follow while using Loargys.

What should I tell my health care provider before using Loargys?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if Loargys is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how Loargys could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if Loargys passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use Loargys while breastfeeding.

How can I get more information about Loargys?

For more information about Loargys, you can visit the drugmaker’s website at www.immedica.com or call them at 844-627-4687.

Interactions

Does Loargys interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between Loargys and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Loargys.

Does Loargys interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between Loargys and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Loargys?

If you or someone else has used too much Loargys, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Loargys?

Loargys is usually given by a health care provider in a hospital or clinic. If you miss an appointment to get your Loargys dose, call to make another appointment as soon as possible. 

If you inject Loargys at home and you miss a dose, call your health care provider for advice. You may need to get your next dose at a hospital or clinic.