Key facts about Evolocumab
What dosages is Evolocumab available in?
Evolocumab is available as a 140 mg/mL single-dose prefilled syringe, 140 mg/mL single-dose prefilled SureClick autoinjector and a 420 mg/3.5 mL single-dose Pushtronex system (on-body infusor with prefilled cartridge).
What is Evolocumab used for?
Evolocumab is a PCSK9 inhibitor and is used for the following:
High cholesterol in adults Inherited condition causing extremely high cholesterol (heterozygous and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia) in people aged 10 years and older
Lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and the need for heart procedures (like stent placement) in adults with known heart disease
How does Evolocumab work?
Evolocumab is a monoclonal antibody that’s known as a PCSK9 inhibitor. PCSK9 is a protein that normally prevents your liver from getting rid of cholesterol in your blood. Evolocumab blocks PCSK9 from doing its job so that your body is able to remove extra cholesterol from your blood. As a result, the medication helps lower the total amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol in your blood.
How do I take Evolocumab?
Evolocumab is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) in your stomach, thigh, or upper arm. The typical dose is either 140 mg injected under the skin every 2 weeks or 420 mg injected under the skin once every month. Your provider will prescribe the dose that’s best for you.
Is it safe for me to take Evolocumab?
Evolocumab is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Evolocumab Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Evolocumab:
- Common cold symptoms
- Flu-like symptoms
- Back pain
- Redness, pain, or bruising at the injection site
Evolocumab Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Evolocumab. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Allergic reaction: trouble breathing or swallowing; hives; rash; itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or arms
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Evolocumab
There are no major drug interactions listed for Evolocumab. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking.
Who makes Evolocumab?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Evolocumab safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Evolocumab will harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking Evolocumab. If you or your child are pregnant or breastfeed during Evolocumab treatment, you are encouraged to call Amgen at 1-800-772-6436 (1-800-77-AMGEN) or visit AMGEN
to share information about the health of you and your baby or your child and your child’s baby.
