When someone has a genetic disorder that causes homocystinuria, their body cannot properly process methionine or homocysteine— two amino acids that the body needs. This can cause homocysteine in the blood to build up to dangerous levels.
CYSTADANE provides the body with a different way to help convert homocysteine back to methionine. This lowers the level of homocysteine in the blood.
In patients with CBS deficiency (classical homocystinuria), CYSTADANE may worsen high methionine blood levels, and accumulation of excess fluid in the brain has been reported. If you have been told you have CBS deficiency, your doctor will be monitoring your methionine blood levels to see if changes in your diet and dosage are necessary.
The most common side effects of CYSTADANE therapy are nausea and gastrointestinal (GI) distress, based on a survey of doctors. For safety information, click here.
CYSTADANE should only be taken as directed by your doctor.
Shake the bottle of CYSTADANE lightly, then remove the cap.
Use the scoop provided to measure the number of scoops as prescribed by your doctor.* One level scoop equals 1 gram of powdered betaine.
Mix the powder with 4 to 6 ounces (120 to 180 mL) of water, juice, milk, or formula until completely dissolved, or mix the powder with food.
Immediately eat or drink the CYSTADANE mixture.
Replace the bottle cap tightly to protect CYSTADANE from moisture.
Store the bottle at room temperature.
*Over time the doctor may adjust the amount of CYSTADANE taken based on tests of blood homocysteine levels and other factors.
CYSTADANE is usually prescribed along with other therapies. Individual treatment will be based on the cause of homocystinuria – CBS deficiency (classical homocystinuria), MTHFR deficiency, or cbl defect – and other factors. Treatment may include:
Adding CYSTADANE to other therapies may further reduce homocysteine in the blood toward target levels.
CYSTADANE (betaine anhydrous for oral solution) is indicated in children and adults for the treatment of homocystinuria to decrease high homocysteine blood levels. Homocystinuria is a rare genetic disorder in which there is an abnormal accumulation of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood and urine. The following are considered to be homocystinuria disorders: