Tepezza

What is Tepezza®?

Tepezza is an intravenous (IV) medication for the treatment of thyroid eye disease (TED). It’s the only FDA-approved treatment for TED. 

TED is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the muscles and fatty tissue around the eyes, causing symptoms such as:

• Red eyes
• Eye irritation
• Dry eye
• Blurry vision
• Double vision
• Bulging eyes
• Difficulty closing eyes
• Eyelid swelling and redness

TED most often occurs in people with Graves’ disease, which is an autoimmune disorder that causes an overproduction of thyroid hormones. However, TED may also occur in people with hypothyroidism (low production of thyroid hormones) or normal thyroid hormone production. 

Tepezza is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets certain receptors that are overexpressed in TED, thereby reducing inflammation around the eyes. 

Am I a candidate for Tepezza?

Dr. Gupta is a board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in TED. She also participated in the international clinical trials for Tepezza prior to its FDA approval. Following a comprehensive evaluation, she will determine if you’re a candidate for this innovative treatment. 

As with any medication, Tepezza may have side effects. Minor transient side effects include muscle cramps and fatigue, which can be significantly lessened with IV hydration which is offered to patients receiving Tepezza in Dr. Gupta’s office.

Dr. Gupta and her team closely monitor your hearing to assess for any changes that may occur related to Tepezza infusion. Tepezza may also affect blood sugar control in people with diabetes, and Dr. Gupta will work with you and your physician to make sure that your blood sugar remains stable during treatment.

You may not be a candidate for the treatment if you have an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is Tepezza given?

Dr. Gupta reviews the details of your Tepezza treatment before getting started. Tepezza is given by infusion through an intravenous (IV) line in your arm. The infusion is given every 3 weeks, typically for a total of 8 infusions.

You are closely monitored during and after treatment to ensure that you tolerate it well. IV hydration is also offered following infusion of Tepezza to minimize potential side effects such as fatigue and muscle cramps.

How long does it take for Tepezza to work?

Results from Tepezza treatments vary. Some people may experience improvements in their symptoms after the first two infusions; for others, it may take longer.

During the clinical trials, patients gained the most benefits after completing all eight infusions. 

To find out more about Tepezza and how it might help you, call the office of Shivani Gupta, MD, MPH, or schedule an appointment online today.