Evolocumab is used to help lower "bad" cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. For people who have a certain inherited condition that causes high levels of LDL (heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia) or who have blockage in the heart
blood vessels, it is used along with a proper diet and a "statin" drug in the highest amount they can take. For people who have a different inherited condition that causes high levels of LDL (homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia),
it is used along with a proper diet and other LDL-lowering treatments (such as "statin" drugs, ezetimibe, LDL apheresis). Evolocumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by improving how well your
body gets rid of LDL cholesterol. USE
Before use, take evolocumab out of the refrigerator and let it warm up to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Do not heat this medication any other way, such as by heating in the microwave or placing in hot water. 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 month. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. If
your doctor has prescribed the monthly dose, you will use 3 separate injections within 30 minutes.
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 days on the calendar when you need to receive the medication.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Redness, pain, or bruising 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.
PRECAUTIONS
Before using evolocumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as latex or dry natural rubber found in the needle cover on the
prefilled syringe/pen) which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.