This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Evolocumab is a monoclonal antibody which was approved for its medical use on 27th August 2015.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Evolocumab Injection is a monoclonal antibody belonging to the class PCSK9 inhibitors. PCSK9 or proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 is a protease enzyme that binds to the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) on the surface of blood cells. When PCSK9 undergoes mutation, the LDL levels increase considerably and increases the risk of cardiovascular events. Evolocumab interferes with the binding of PCSK9 to the LDL receptor, thereby increasing the clearance of LDL from circulation by the liver. this ultimately reduces the serum LDL levels and lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Uses of undefined

Evolocumab Injection has been developed for adults with established heart problems to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke and coronary revascularization. This medicine is also indicated along with diet and other cholesterol-lowering therapies to treat primary hyperlipidemia and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Evolocumab is available as a single dose prefilled syringe intended for subcutaneous administration. The recommended dosage for patients with primary hyperlipidemia is 140 mg every two weeks or 420 mg once a month.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unusual bruising, redness or infection. During the Evolocumab injection treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood cell counts, platelets, blood sugar, electrolytes and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have been diagnosed with liver disorders, kidney problems, diabetes or heart failure

Precautions

There is no sufficient information about the impact of Evolocumab when used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell your physician before taking this injection if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you could be pregnant or planning to have a baby.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Evolocumab Injection are nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, back pain, injection site reactions, influenza, high blood sugar levels. If you experience any allergic reactions such as itching or bruising, report to your doctor immediately.

Word Of Advice

Avoid driving and operating heavy machinery during this treatment if you experience any discomfort. Apply cool compress at the injection site to reduce the pain.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Holly E. Gurgle and Donald K. Blumenthal, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Drug Therapy for Dyslipidemias, 1th Edition, 2018, 605-618.
  2. Binod Pokhrel; Wei C. Yuet; Steven N. Levine, StatPearls [Internet], [Revised on 13th May 2022] [Accessed on 2nd Sep 2022], https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448100/
  3. Amgen, [Revised on Sep 2021] [Accessed on 2nd Sep 2022], https://www.pi.amgen.com/-/media/Project/Amgen/Repository/pi-amgen-com/Repatha/repatha_pi_hcp_english.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.