This medication is used to help prevent migraine. It is
also used to treat a certain type of headache (episodic cluster headache).
Galcanezumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies.
This medication may work by changing the amounts of certain natural
substances in the brain. Using this medication can help improve your
ability to concentrate and do your usual tasks.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions
for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using galcanezumab and
each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to
prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor
or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by
your doctor, usually once a month. The injection is given in the thigh,
abdomen, buttocks, or upper arm. The dosage is based on your medical
condition and response to treatment.
Take the medication out of the refrigerator at least 30
minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not
warm up this medication any other way (for example, do not heat it in the
microwave, place it in hot water, leave it in direct sunlight). Do not
shake the medication. Before using, check this product for particles or
discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before
injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the
injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time
to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is tender,
bruised, red, or hard, or into scars or stretch marks. To lessen bruising,
do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard
medical supplies safely.
For the prevention of migraine, use this medication
regularly to get the most benefit from it. For the treatment of cluster
headache, use this medication regularly during the cluster period. To help
you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
Redness, pain, itching, or swelling at the injection
site may 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 galcanezumab, 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 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.
Do not share this medication with others.
If you miss a scheduled monthly dose, use it as soon as
you remember. Do not double the dose to catch up. Then use your next dose
one month later. Continue to use each dose one month apart. Ask your doctor
or pharmacist if you have questions about your schedule.
Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep the
medication in the original packaging to protect from light. This medication
may also be stored at room temperature if needed. If the medication is
stored at room temperature, do not put it back in the refrigerator and
discard after 7 days. Do not leave the syringe/autoinjector in direct
sunlight. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.