About glycerol phenyl butyrate
Nitrogen-scavenging ammonia-lowering agent
Used for
- Long-term management of urea cycle disorders in adults and children, alongside dietary protein restriction and other therapies.
- Helps prevent ammonia buildup; not suitable for treating an acute hyperammonemia crisis.
Usual adult dose
Usually 4.5–11.2 mL/m² body surface area daily, divided into three doses; adjusted to clinical response and laboratory results.
Usual dose in children
Usually 4.5–11.2 mL/m² body surface area daily, divided into three doses; dosing is individualized by age, weight, and response.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Headache, dizziness, or fatigue
- Reduced appetite
- Abnormal liver or kidney tests
Important warnings
- Not for acute hyperammonemia; urgent specialist treatment is required for a crisis.
- Monitor ammonia, nutritional status, and liver and kidney function.
- Use caution with pancreatitis, pancreatic insufficiency, or impaired liver or kidney function.
- May affect absorption of other medicines; administer with food or through a feeding tube as directed.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy data are limited. Use only when the potential benefit justifies potential fetal risk; specialist oversight is important.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether the medicine passes into breast milk. Weigh treatment benefits against potential infant risk with a clinician.
Interactions
- Probenecid may reduce elimination of the active metabolite.
- Corticosteroids, valproate, or haloperidol may increase ammonia levels.
- Some medicines can alter absorption; separate administration when directed.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.