EVOLOCUMAB
Background and Date of Approval
Evolocumab is a monoclonal antibody which was approved for its medical use on 27th August 2015.
Uses
Evolocumab Injection has been developed for adults with established heart problems to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke and coronary revascularization. This medicine is also indicated along with diet and other cholesterol-lowering therapies to treat primary hyperlipidemia and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.
How is it administered?
Evolocumab is available as a single dose prefilled syringe intended for subcutaneous administration. The recommended dosage for patients with primary hyperlipidemia is 140 mg every two weeks or 420 mg once a month.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Evolocumab Injection are nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, back pain, injection site reactions, influenza, high blood sugar levels. If you experience any allergic reactions such as itching or bruising, report to your doctor immediately.
Warnings
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unusual bruising, redness or infection. During the Evolocumab injection treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood cell counts, platelets, blood sugar, electrolytes and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have been diagnosed with liver disorders, kidney problems, diabetes or heart failure
Precautions
There is no sufficient information about the impact of Evolocumab when used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell your physician before taking this injection if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you could be pregnant or planning to have a baby.
Word of Advice
Avoid driving and operating heavy machinery during this treatment if you experience any discomfort. Apply cool compress at the injection site to reduce the pain.
References
Holly E. Gurgle and Donald K. Blumenthal, Goodman & Gilmanâs Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Drug Therapy for Dyslipidemias, 1th Edition, 2018, 605-618. Binod Pokhrel; Wei C. Yuet; Steven N. Levine, StatPearls [Internet], [Revised on 13th May 2022] [Accessed on 2nd Sep 2022], https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448100/ Amgen, [Revised on Sep 2021] [Accessed on 2nd Sep 2022], https://www.pi.amgen.com/-/media/Project/Amgen/Repository/pi-amgen-com/Repatha/repatha_pi_hcp_english.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Evolocumab Injection indicated as a monotherapy?
Evolocumab Injection is a humanized monoclonal antibody that belongs to the class of PCSK9 inhibitors. It can either be used as monotherapy or in combination with cholesterol-reducing drugs to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
Who should not take Evolocumab Injection?
Patients who are allergic to Evolocumab or its excipients should not take Evolocumab Injection. Hypersensitivity to Evolovumab could lead to angioedema. Tell your healthcare provider before taking this injection if you are allergic to latex.
What should you know before using Evolocumab Injection?
Do not use this injection without receiving proper training from your healthcare provider. Avoid injecting this medicine into areas with scars, stretch marks, redness and bruises.
What are the side effects of Evolocumab Injection?
Most common side effects include runny nose, sore throat, flu like symptoms, back pain, redness, pain and bruising at injection site.
How is Evolocumab Injection administered?
Evolocumab Injection is available as a prefilled syringe intended for subcutaneous administration. It can be administered into the skin of the thigh, upper arm or stomach (except two inches around the belly button). Your healthcare provider will provide training to administer this injection on your own.
How do you store Evolocumab Injection?
Store Evolocumab Injection in a refrigerator without freezing and protect it from light. Do not use the injection if it has been frozen. Keep the injection at room temperature before using.
Can you administer Evolocumab during pregnancy?
There is no sufficient information about the impact of Evolocumab when used during pregnancy. Therefore, it is advisable to tell your healthcare provider before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby.