Fuzeon update.

In January, new precautions were added to the labeling for the injectable HIV fusion inhibitor Fuzeon. The new information focuses on side effects reported when the Biojector 2000 needle-free device is used to inject Fuzeon. In addition, the correct injection sites are spelled out.

Patients

using the Biojector 2000 needle-free device to inject Fuzeon may experience shooting nerve pain and tingling that can last for up to 6 months. This is caused by injecting the drug close to large nerves or near joints. In addition, bruising and collections of blood under the skin have been reported. Patients taking blood thinners, or patients with hemophilia or any other bleeding disorder, may be at higher risk of bruising or bleeding after using the Biojector.

The preferred body sites for injecting Fuzeon (regardless of the injection method) are the upper arm, abdomen, and upper thigh. Do not inject Fuzeon in the same area as you did the time before or where there is a current injection site reaction from an earlier dose. Fuzeon should not be injected near the elbow, knee, groin, or the lower or inner buttocks. In addition, Fuzeon should not be injected directly over a blood vessel; into moles, scar tissue, or bruises; or near the navel (belly button), surgical scars, tattoos, or burn sites.