What is Cerezyme? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025 • Published Sep 24, 2021

Cerezyme overview

BRAND NAMES:

Cerezyme

Generic Names:

Cerezyme

Uses:

Treats type 1 Gaucher disease.

Therapeutic Classes:

Digestant, Gastrointestinal Agent

Forms:

Injectable

How it’s taken:

By injection

What is Cerezyme used for?

Cerezyme is a prescription-only medication used by patients diagnosed with Type 1 Gaucher disease to treat their long term enzyme deficiency. Cerezyme works by replacing an enzyme called glucocerebrosidase in patients that lack this enzyme from their body.

What form(s) does Cerezyme come in?

Injectable

What are common Cerezyme dosages?

Solution Reconstituted 400UNIT

Cerezyme images - What does Cerezyme look like?

Cerezyme
400unit solution reconstituted

How to take Cerezyme

Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
Injection routeYour doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
Missed dose: You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.

What to do if you miss a dose of Cerezyme

Cerezyme contraindications - Who shouldn't take Cerezyme?

This medicine is not right for everyone. Tell your doctor if you had an allergic reaction to imiglucerase.

Cerezyme warnings

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Tell your doctor if you have received alglucerase, especially if you had an allergic reaction to it.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Cerezyme interactions & what to avoid when taking Cerezyme

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Tell your doctor if you have received alglucerase, especially if you had an allergic reaction to it.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Cerezyme side effects - How does Cerezyme make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Cough, trouble breathing

Less Serious Side Effects

Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed