ALIROCUMAB - SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION

ALIROCUMAB - SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (AL-i-ROK-ue-mab)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Praluent

GENERIC NAME(S): alirocumab

Uses

USES: Alirocumab is used along with a proper diet and maximally tolerated "statin" drugs to help lower "bad" cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. It is used by people who have an inherited condition that causes high levels of LDL or who have blockage in the heart blood vessels, who need more lowering of LDL levels. Alirocumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by improving how well your body gets rid of LDL cholesterol. In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.


How to use ALIROCUMAB - SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using alirocumab and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Before use, take alirocumab out of the refrigerator and let it warm up to room temperature for 30 to 40 minutes. Do not heat this medication any other way, such as by heating in the microwave or placing in hot water. If needed, this medication may be kept in the original package at room temperature for up to 30 days. Do not shake this medication. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Inject this medication under the skin of the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm as directed by your doctor, usually once every 2 weeks, or once every 4 weeks (monthly). The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into any areas of skin that are injured, tender, hard, red, or hot. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark the day on the calendar when you need to receive the medication. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Redness, itching, swelling, or pain at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using alirocumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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PRALUENT 75 MG/ML PEN

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PRALUENT 150 MG/ML PEN

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Faq for ALIROCUMAB - SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION

Alirocumab is used as a treatment for patients with high cholesterol levels who are at risk of heart disease or have been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease.

Alirocumab works by blocking a particular protein called PCSK9, which plays a role in regulating cholesterol levels in the blood. By inhibiting PCSK9, alirocumab helps to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart-related problems.

Alirocumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected under the skin using a pre-filled syringe or autoinjector. The injection is typically self-administered once every two weeks or once a month, depending on the prescribed dosage.

Common side effects of alirocumab may include injection site reactions (such as redness, itching, or pain), flu-like symptoms, back pain, and allergic reactions. It's important to discuss any potential side effects with your doctor.

Alirocumab is often prescribed in combination with a healthy diet and other lipid-lowering treatments such as statins, to further reduce LDL cholesterol levels. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and take all prescribed medications as directed.

Alirocumab can start working within a few weeks of initiation, but it may take up to 4-8 weeks to see the full effect on cholesterol levels. Regular blood tests will be conducted to monitor your progress and adjust the dosage if necessary.

The duration of treatment with Alirocumab varies depending on your individual condition. Doctors typically recommend long-term use to maintain lowered cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Always consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing or changing any medication.

There are no known interactions between alcohol and alirocumab. However, excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact cholesterol levels and overall heart health. It's advisable to drink alcohol in moderation or as recommended by your healthcare provider.

There is limited data available regarding the safety of alirocumab in pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is recommended to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before starting or continuing the treatment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.