Velaglucerase Alfa
Velaglucerase Alfa is an enzyme replacement therapy used to treat Type 1 Gaucher disease, a rare genetic disorder. It works by providing an exogenous source of beta-glucocerebrosidase, the enzyme deficient in Gaucher patients, helping to break down accumulated glucocerebroside in cells.
Velaglucerase Alfa is an enzyme replacement therapy that treats Type 1 Gaucher disease by supplementing the deficient beta-glucocerebrosidase enzyme.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A16AB10
- RxNorm
- 901805
- Generic
- Velaglucerase Alfa
- Class
- atc-a16
- Brands
- Vpriv
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of Type 1 Gaucher disease, a rare lysosomal storage disorder characterized by accumulation of glucocerebroside in macrophages throughout the reticuloendothelial system.
Velaglucerase Alfa is a recombinant form of human beta-glucocerebrosidase administered via intravenous infusion. It catalyzes the hydrolysis of glucocerebroside into glucose and ceramide, reducing lipid accumulation in affected cells.
Administered by intravenous infusion, typically every other week. Patients should be monitored for infusion reactions and antibody development. Dosing is individualized based on disease severity and therapeutic response. Available through specialty pharmacies.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy