Kuvan is used to treat high levels of phenylalanine in the blood, which occur in people with certain genetic disorders.
Understanding Kuvan's Use
Kuvan is a medication specifically designed for individuals diagnosed with:
- Phenylketonuria (PKU): A genetic condition where the body can't properly break down phenylalanine, an amino acid. This leads to a buildup of phenylalanine in the blood, which can be harmful, especially to the brain.
- Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) Deficiency: Another genetic disorder that interferes with the body's ability to produce or properly use BH4. BH4 is a substance needed to break down phenylalanine, among other functions.
How Kuvan Helps
Kuvan, which contains sapropterin dihydrochloride, acts as a synthetic form of BH4. By providing the body with BH4, Kuvan can help reduce the amount of phenylalanine in the blood for people with PKU or BH4 deficiency.
Who Can Use Kuvan?
Kuvan is approved for use in both:
- Adults
- Children of all ages
Key Points About Kuvan Treatment
- Kuvan is not a cure for PKU or BH4 deficiency, but it helps manage the condition.
- Not everyone with PKU will respond to Kuvan treatment. The response varies between individuals.
- Treatment with Kuvan usually requires regular monitoring by a healthcare provider to assess its effectiveness.
Table Summary
| Medication | Conditions Treated | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Kuvan | Phenylketonuria (PKU) & Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) Deficiency | High blood levels of phenylalanine |
