What is Copaxone/glatiramer acetate used for?

This medicine is used to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

If you have any questions about your medicine, please talk with your Health care provider, pharmacist, or health care provider. This medicine is only to be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your Health care provider, pharmacist, or health care provider.

How should Copaxone/glatiramer acetate be stored?

Store vials or the prefilled glass syringes in the refrigerator between 36—46 degrees F. Do not freeze. Storage at room temperature for up to 1 week does not significantly affect the drug. Store vials of sterile water (clear vials) at room temperature. Throw away any open vials or syringes containing unused injection solution.Make sure you receive a puncture-resistant container to dispose of the needles and syringes once you have finished with them. Do not reuse these items. Return the container to your prescriber or health care professional for proper disposal.

General drug information:

When should Copaxone/glatiramer acetate not be taken?

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any ingredient in this medicine or to similar medications.

What precautions should I follow when taking Copaxone/glatiramer acetate?

Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you are taking blood thinners if you have stomach problems if you have peptic ulcers if you have any other medical condition like liver or kidney function impairment or heart problem

What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Copaxone/glatiramer acetate?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress while receiving treatment with this medicine. Do not change the dose or dosing schedule without talking to your prescriber or health care professional. Do not stop taking glatiramer without talking to your health care provider.

What are the side effects of Copaxone/glatiramer acetate?

Most severe: Chest pain or tightness, difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, hives, severe rash, severe pain at the injection site, unusual muscle weakness or tiredness

Most common: Anxiety, bleeding, inflammation, itching, lump, pain, or redness at the site of injection, dizziness, flushing, joint aches, muscle stiffness, nausea, vomiting, tremor, weakness

Other: None

How should I take Copaxone/glatiramer acetate?

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depend on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of the medicine you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking this medicine. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist. This medicine is for injection under the skin. It may be given at home or by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Your prescriber or health care professional will assist you in preparing and injecting your first dose (or first few doses). Make sure you or your caregiver understands how to prepare and give this drug. If you do not understand the directions for mixing or giving glatiramer, check with your health care provider. This medicine is available as a powder to be mixed prior to injection or as a prefilled syringe. If you are using the prefilled glass syringes, they do not require mixing prior to use. Use the prefilled glass syringe with the autoject2 for glass syringe device and not with the original. Rotate sites where you inject glatiramer; you should not use any injection site more than once each week. Usual sites of injection include the thigh, back hip, stomach, and upper arms. Try to give the injection at the same time each day. Choose a time when you feel strongest. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Continue to take your medicine even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.