WARNING

Evenity (romosozumab) is a medication used to treat osteoporosis, primarily in postmenopausal women at high risk of fracture. While it can be effective in increasing bone density and reducing fracture risk, like any medication, it carries certain risks. Some potential risks of taking Evenity include:

• Cardiovascular Events: There’s a risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attack, stroke, and blood clots.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Evenity, which can range from mild to severe.
• Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ): Rarely, Evenity can cause ONJ, a condition where the bone tissue in the jaw fails to heal after minor trauma, leading to pain, swelling, and infection.
• Atypical Femur Fractures: Prolonged use of Evenity may increase the risk of atypical fractures in the thigh bone (femur), particularly in those who have been on similar medications for a long time.
• Hypocalcemia: Evenity can cause low levels of calcium in the blood, leading to symptoms such as muscle spasms, tingling sensations, and confusion.
• Injection Site Reactions: Some individuals may experience pain, swelling, or redness at the site of injection.

It’s important for individuals considering Evenity to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider, especially if they have a history of cardiovascular disease, allergies, or other medical conditions. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments can help mitigate these risks and ensure the medication is safe and effective for each individual.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Evenity (romosozumab) is prescribed primarily for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk of fracture. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones, increasing the risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist. Evenity works by increasing bone formation and decreasing bone resorption, leading to improved bone density and strength.

How should this medicine be used?

Evenity is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin) once a month. The recommended dose is 210 mg injected by a healthcare professional. It is usually given for 12 months, followed by another osteoporosis medication such as a bisphosphonate, to maintain the benefits gained from Evenity.

To use Evenity:

• Administration: Evenity is administered as a subcutaneous injection, usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It should be injected by a healthcare professional.
• Dosage: The recommended dose is 210 mg injected once a month. It’s important to adhere to the prescribed dosage and schedule.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are important to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and any potential side effects.
• Supplementation: Patients taking Evenity should ensure an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, as recommended by their healthcare provider, to support bone health.
• Duration: Evenity is typically administered for 12 months, followed by another osteoporosis medication to maintain the benefits. The duration of treatment may vary based on individual factors and healthcare provider recommendations.

It’s crucial for individuals prescribed Evenity to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and to discuss any questions or concerns about the medication and its use.

Other uses for this medicine

Evenity (romosozumab) is primarily used for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk of fracture. It’s specifically designed to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in individuals with osteoporosis. However, it’s important to note that Evenity is not approved for other uses beyond treating osteoporosis.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using Evenity:

• Medical History: Before starting Evenity, inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, medical conditions, and medications you are currently taking. This information will help your doctor assess whether Evenity is suitable for you and whether any precautions need to be taken.
• Bone Health Monitoring: Regular monitoring of bone density and fracture risk may be necessary during treatment with Evenity. Your healthcare provider may order bone density scans (DEXA scans) periodically to assess the effectiveness of the medication.
• Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation: It’s important to ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D while taking Evenity. Your healthcare provider may recommend calcium and/or vitamin D supplements to support bone health.
• Injection Site Reactions: Some individuals may experience injection site reactions such as pain, swelling, or redness. If you notice any unusual or severe reactions at the injection site, inform your healthcare provider.
• Adverse Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Evenity, such as cardiovascular events, hypersensitivity reactions, osteonecrosis of the jaw, atypical femur fractures, and hypocalcemia. Report any unusual symptoms or adverse reactions to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Follow-Up Visits: Attend all scheduled follow-up visits with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Evenity and address any concerns or questions you may have.
• Duration of Treatment: Evenity is typically administered for 12 months, followed by another osteoporosis medication to maintain the benefits. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding the duration of treatment and any subsequent therapies.

By following these precautions and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can maximize the benefits of Evenity while minimizing the risks associated with its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions for Evenity:

• Calcium-Rich Foods: Incorporate calcium-rich foods into your diet, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, tofu, and fortified foods.
• Vitamin D Sources: Consume foods high in vitamin D, including fatty fish (e.g., salmon, tuna), egg yolks, fortified foods (e.g., milk, cereal), and supplements if recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Excessive alcohol and caffeine intake can negatively affect bone health. Consume these substances in moderation.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Contact Your Healthcare Provider: If you miss a dose of Evenity, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on what to do next. They can provide specific instructions based on your individual situation.
• Reschedule the Dose: Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendation for rescheduling the missed dose. It’s important to maintain the prescribed dosing schedule to optimize the effectiveness of treatment.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not administer a double dose of Evenity to make up for the missed dose unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider. Doubling the dose can increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefit.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Evenity (romosozumab) can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some common side effects include:

• Joint Pain: Pain or discomfort in the joints, such as the knees, hips, or hands.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches may occur, especially during the initial stages of treatment.
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, swelling, or redness at the site of injection are common but usually mild and temporary.
• Muscle Pain: Some individuals may experience muscle pain or discomfort while taking Evenity.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Evenity may increase blood pressure in some individuals.
• Nausea: Feelings of nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort may occur in some cases.
• Hypocalcemia: Low levels of calcium in the blood may occur, leading to symptoms such as muscle cramps, spasms, or tingling sensations.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Rarely, severe allergic reactions to Evenity may occur, which can manifest as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ): A rare but serious side effect where the bone tissue in the jaw fails to heal after minor trauma, leading to pain, swelling, and infection.
• Atypical Femur Fractures: Prolonged use of Evenity may increase the risk of atypical fractures in the thigh bone (femur), particularly in those who have been on similar medications for a long time.
• Cardiovascular Events: Evenity may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attack, stroke, and blood clots.

It’s essential to report any unusual or severe symptoms experienced while taking Evenity to your healthcare provider promptly. They can assess the severity of the side effects and provide guidance on how to manage them effectively.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Evenity should be stored 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 prefilled syringe or pen.
• Handling: Handle Evenity with care and avoid dropping or damaging the prefilled syringe or pen.
• Disposal: Dispose of used prefilled syringes or pens as per local regulations for hazardous waste disposal. Do not throw them in the regular trash. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for proper disposal instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: In case of an overdose or if you experience severe symptoms or allergic reactions after taking Evenity, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptom Management: If you experience any adverse effects or overdose symptoms, such as severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and seek emergency medical assistance.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Evenity and assess bone health.
• Medication Guide: Read the medication guide provided by your pharmacist before starting Evenity and each time you get a refill. It contains important information about the medication, its uses, risks, and how to use it safely.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, including allergies, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, before starting Evenity. Discuss any concerns or questions you have about the medication with your healthcare provider.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as Evenity may interact with certain medications.
• Dietary Supplements: Maintain adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D as recommended by your healthcare provider to support bone health while taking Evenity.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Evenity, you can use the medication safely and effectively to manage osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fractures.