Cerezyme (imiglucerase) is a recombinant, hydrolytic lysosomal glucocerebrosidase enzyme designed for intravenous administration. It serves as an enzyme replacement therapy, compensating for the deficient or defective β-glucocerebrosidase activity characteristic of Type 1 Gaucher disease. The drug is produced using recombinant DNA technology in Chinese hamster ovary cells, resulting in a glycoprotein structurally analogous to the human enzyme, with modifications to enhance cellular uptake.

Upon administration, Cerezyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of accumulated glucocerebroside into glucose and ceramide, thereby reducing pathological substrate storage in affected tissues such as the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. This targeted mechanism addresses the underlying metabolic defect, leading to clinical improvements in hematologic parameters, organomegaly, and skeletal involvement. The preparation is supplied as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution and must be administered under the supervision of healthcare professionals experienced in managing hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis.