Why is this medication prescribed?

Evinacumab-dgnb injection is typically prescribed to treat familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) or severe hypercholesterolemia in adults who require additional lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) despite maximally tolerated lipid-lowering therapy. FH is an inherited condition that leads to exceptionally high levels of LDL-C, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Evinacumab-dgnb works by inhibiting angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3), which plays a role in regulating lipid metabolism. By blocking ANGPTL3, evinacumab-dgnb helps lower LDL-C levels in the blood, reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.

How should this medicine be used?

Evinacumab-dgnb Injection is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin. Here are the general steps for using Evinacumab-dgnb Injection:

• Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Gather all the supplies you’ll need, including the vial(s) of Evinacumab-dgnb, alcohol swabs, syringe(s), and needles as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Inspection: Check the vial(s) of Evinacumab-dgnb for any signs of damage or contamination. Do not use the medication if it appears cloudy, discolored, or contains particles.
• Preparation of the Injection Site: Choose a clean and dry injection site, such as the abdomen or thigh. Avoid areas with scars, bruises, or irritation. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry.
• Preparation of the Medication: If necessary, follow the instructions provided with the medication to reconstitute it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Some formulations may require mixing with a diluent before injection.
• Drawing Up the Medication: Use a syringe and needle to draw up the prescribed dose of Evinacumab-dgnb from the vial. Remove any air bubbles from the syringe by gently tapping it and pushing the plunger to expel the air.
• Injection: Pinch the skin at the injection site to create a fold. Insert the needle into the skin at a 45 to 90-degree angle, depending on the length of the needle and your healthcare provider’s instructions. Inject the medication slowly and steadily.
• After the Injection: Once the medication has been injected, remove the needle from the skin and apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a clean cotton ball or gauze pad. Do not rub the injection site.
• Disposal: Dispose of used needles and syringes in a puncture-proof container according to local regulations.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider for the correct dosage, administration technique, and frequency of Evinacumab-dgnb Injection. If you have any questions or concerns about using this medication, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Evinacumab-dgnb Injection is primarily indicated for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding alternative uses of this medication, as new indications may have emerged since then.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Evinacumab-dgnb Injection, here are some general guidelines:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to the active ingredient (evinacumab-dgnb) or any other medications.
• Medical History: Provide your complete medical history to your healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of liver or kidney disease, as this may affect the dosage or suitability of the medication.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Evinacumab-dgnb Injection during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, so your healthcare provider will weigh the potential risks and benefits before prescribing this medication.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as they may interact with Evinacumab-dgnb Injection and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
• Injection Site Reactions: Monitor for any signs of injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling, or pain, and inform your healthcare provider if these occur.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your lipid levels and other relevant parameters periodically to assess the effectiveness and safety of Evinacumab-dgnb Injection.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and ask any questions you may have about Evinacumab-dgnb Injection and its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

As for special dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Evinacumab-dgnb Injection. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, as recommended by your healthcare provider, to manage your condition effectively.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Evinacumab-dgnb Injection, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine the best course of action. They may advise you on whether to administer the missed dose or adjust your dosing schedule. It’s important not to double the dose to make up for a missed one unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Evinacumab-dgnb Injection, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Injection site reactions: These can include redness, swelling, pain, itching, or bruising at the injection site.
• Upper respiratory tract infections: Symptoms may include cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, or runny nose.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: These may include nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches as a side effect of Evinacumab-dgnb Injection.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued may occur in some individuals.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to Evinacumab-dgnb Injection. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

It’s essential to report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing these side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, if you have any concerns about potential side effects, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of Evinacumab-dgnb Injection:

• Storage: Store Evinacumab-dgnb Injection in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. Keep the medication in its original carton to protect it from light. Do not shake the vial. If needed, the unopened vials may be stored at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for a single period of up to 30 days. Once removed from the refrigerator or opened, the medication should be used within 30 days or discarded if not used within that timeframe.
• Disposal: Dispose of used needles and syringes in a puncture-proof container according to local regulations. Do not dispose of medications via wastewater or household waste unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention immediately. It’s essential to have a healthcare professional evaluate any potential overdose situation and provide appropriate treatment.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your use of Evinacumab-dgnb Injection.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding dosing, administration, and monitoring.
• Notify your healthcare provider of any new or worsening symptoms.
• Do not share Evinacumab-dgnb Injection with others, even if they have the same condition, as it may not be suitable for them.
• Keep Evinacumab-dgnb Injection and all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Evinacumab-dgnb Injection or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of Evinacumab-dgnb Injection as prescribed by your healthcare provider.