Erenumab

Uses

Note: This drug is currently not available for sale or use in the Philippines. The information provided is for educational purposes only.

What is erenumab used for?

Erenumab works by blocking calcitonin gene-related peptide receptors and is indicated for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. Erenumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies.

How should I take erenumab?

• Prior to subcutaneous administration, allow erenumab to sit at room temperature for at least
  30 minutes protected from direct sunlight.
• Do not warm by using a heat source such as hot water or a microwave.
• Do not shake the product.
• Inspect visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. Do not use if the solution is cloudy or discolored or contains
  flakes or particles.
• Administer erenumab in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm subcutaneously. Do not inject
  into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, or hard.
• Both prefilled autoinjector and prefilled syringe are single-dose and deliver the entire
  contents.

How do I store erenumab?

Erenumab is best stored in the refrigerator. To prevent drug damage, do not freeze. There may be different brands of erenumab that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush erenumab down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using erenumab?

Before using erenumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any history of allergies to this drug or other substances. 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 breast-feeding.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breast-feeding?

There are no adequate studies in women for determining risk when using this erenumab during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking erenumab. Erenumab is a pregnancy risk category N according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

• A=No risk,
• B=No risk in some studies,
• C=There may be some risk,
• D=Positive evidence of risk,
• X=Contraindicated,
• N=Unknown

Side effects

What side effects can occur from erenumab?

Redness, pain, or swelling at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, the needle cap of the syringe and autoinjector contains dry natural rubber (a derivative of latex), which may cause allergic reactions in sensitive patients. Seek medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat)
• Trouble breathing

Other possible serious side effects:

• Constipation
• High blood pressure

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with erenumab?

Erenumab may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Does food or alcohol interact with Erenumab?

Erenumab may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Erenumab?

Erenumab may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this erenumab.

What is the dose of erenumab for an adult?

Usual Adult Dose for Migraine Prophylaxis

The recommended dosage is 70 mg administered subcutaneously, once a month.

Some patients may benefit from a dosage of 140 mg subcutaneously, once a month.

A dose of 140 mg should be administered as 2 consecutive subcutaneous injections of 70 mg each.

Renal Dose Adjustments

No adjustment recommended

Liver Dose Adjustments

No adjustment recommended

Dose Adjustments

Elderly: No specific recommendations, however, in general, dose selection should be cautious, generally starting at the low end of the dosing range.

What is the dose of erenumab for a child?

The dosage has not been established in pediatric patients. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before administering it. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is erenumab available?

Erenumab is available in the following brands, dosage forms, and strengths:

• Aimovig SureClick® Autoinjector 70 mg/mL, 140 mg/mL
• Aimovig Prefilled Syringe 70 mg/mL, 140 mg/mL

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of erenumab, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.