Evinacumab is used to treat a certain high cholesterol
disorder (homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia-HoFH). It is used along
with a proper diet and other LDL-lowering treatments (such as "statin"
drugs, ezetimibe, LDL apheresis). Evinacumab belongs to a class of drugs
known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by blocking a certain protein that
stops your body from properly breaking down cholesterol. This effect helps
decrease "bad cholesterol" and fats (such as LDL,
triglycerides).
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.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using evinacumab and each time you get a
refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into a vein as
directed by your doctor, usually once every month (every 4 weeks). The
injection is given by a health care professional, usually over 60 minutes.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to
treatment.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a
reminder.
Itching, fever, muscle weakness, or nausea during the
injection may occur. Dizziness and runny/stuffy nose may also occur. If any
of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor 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.
Before using evinacumab, 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.
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana
(cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana
(cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using evinacumab. Evinacumab
may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test before
you start this medication. Ask about reliable forms of birth control while
using this medication and for at least 5 months after the last dose. If you
become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and
benefits of this medication.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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.
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 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as cholesterol tests)
should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and
lab appointments.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or clinic or doctor's office and will not be stored at
home.