AIMOVIG
11 Jun 2019
Generic Name : ERENUMAB
ABSTRACT –
Aimovig is a drug used for the prevention of migraines in adults. It is generally found in the injection form. Aimovig is a monoclonal antibody that works by preventing the activation of the protein ‘Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide’ (CGRP) which is responsible for migraine attacks, inflammation and dilation of blood vessels. Aimovig is one of the first ‘Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide Receptor Antagonists’ to be used in the preventive treatment of migraines.
DOSAGE –
- Aimovig is to be administered as directed by the doctors.
- Aimovig is administered once a month.
- Aimovig is injected subcutaneously.
- Intensity of dosage may differ from case to case. Consult your doctor regarding the dosage strength and follow through as recommended.
- Do not administer over 70mg at a time. In case of double strength dosage, use a separate syringe to administer the remaining dose after the first one.
- General adult dosage – 70mg, 140mg
SIDE EFFECTS –
Diagnosis is usually recommended to –
- Bleeding from target site
- Blisters appearing
- Discolored skin
- Inflammation
- Itching or minor rashes
- Lumps forming
- Scarring
RARE SIDE EFFECTS:
- Spasms
- Muscle cramps
- Constipation or indigestion
- Allergic reactions such as difficulty in breathing, rashes, itching, hives or swelling of facial areas.
DRUG INTERACTIONS –
Aimovig is not known to react with any other drug. The only likely reactions possible, apart from skin allergies, are with certain vitamins and herbal products. Consult a doctor regarding the nature of the vitamins or herbal products being used before prescribing the drug.
PRECAUTIONS –
- Always be sure to check the label on the syringe for the right drug and intensity before administering.
- In case of double dosage, do not administer the second dosage at the same target site. Instead, pick another spot to inject into the skin.
- Subcutaneous administering must be conducted with caution and care. It is recommended that someone with medical experience or an aide be present for the purpose of administering the dosage.
- Do not shake the syringe before administering. After, dispose of the empty syringe safely.
- Treating migraine episodes is crucial during a pregnancy – as migraines can aggravate hypertensive blood pressure conditions and cause medical problems for both the mother and child
- Consult a doctor regarding the side effects of breastfeeding while taking Aimovig, as there may be risks involved.
- Notify the doctor in case of an allergy to erenumab or latex beforehand.
WARNINGS –
- Aimovig is not recommended for the treatment of individuals below the age of 18.
- Do not inject at a site that is reddened or blistered.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.