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Evolocumab Solution for injection
What is this medication?
EVOLOCUMAB (e voe LOK ue mab) treats high cholesterol. It may also be used to lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and a type of heart surgery. It works by decreasing bad cholesterol (such as LDL) in your blood. It is a monoclonal antibody. Changes to diet and exercise are often combined with this medication.
How should I use this medication?
This medication is injected under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give it. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.
This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 10 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions or angioedema—skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs, trouble swallowing or breathing
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Back pain
- Flu-like symptoms—fever, chills, muscle pain, cough, headache, fatigue
- Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store in a refrigerator or at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F).
Refrigeration (preferred): Store it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep it in the original carton until you are ready to take it. Remove the dose from the carton about 30 minutes before it is time for you to take it. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
Room temperature: This medication may be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days. Keep it in the original carton until you are ready to take it. If it is stored at room temperature, get rid of any unused medication after 30 days or after it expires, whichever is first.
Protect from light. Do not shake. Avoid exposure to extreme heat.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
- Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
- If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- An unusual or allergic reaction to evolocumab, latex, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
What may interact with this medication?
Interactions are not expected.
What if I miss a dose?
It is important not to miss any doses. Talk to your care team about what to do if you miss a dose.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. You may need blood work while you are taking this medication.
Do not wear the on-body infuser during an MRI.
Taking this medication is only part of a total heart healthy program. Ask your care team if there are other changes you can make to improve your overall health.
