What is Leqvio?
Leqvio is a prescription medication used to reduce LDL-C levels in adults with high cholesterol. Leqvio is a prescription medicine that lowers the 'bad' cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), when used in conjunction with statin treatment and diet.Leqvio reduces the level of "bad" cholesterol in the blood by blocking the LDL-C protein. It blocks proprotein convertase kexin 9 (PCSK9). Leqvio, a small-interfering RNA, or siRNA, was the first drug of its kind to be approved for lowering 'bad' LDL.Leqvio can be given by injection (subcutaneously) in the first dose. A second dose is then administered after 3 months and every 6 months thereafter.Leqvio can be prescribed to adults who have primary hyperlipidemia. This is high cholesterol caused by genetic abnormalities. Leqvio is best used in conjunction with statin therapy, diet, and lifestyle changes.Leqvio was approved by the FDA on December 22, 2021. The indications for Leqvio were then expanded on July 10th, 2023.
Side effects of Leqvio
Common Leqvio side effects
- Redness, pain, or bruising at the site of injection;
- Pain in the legs and arms
- Diarrhoea;
- Bronchitis is a breathing problem.
- Joint pain; or
- Pain and burning while urinating (a serious side effect; consult your doctor).
Serious Leqvio side effects If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives; severe itching; difficulty breathing; swelling of your lips, face, throat, or tongue
If you experience:
- You may experience pain and burning after urinating.
Other side effects may also occur. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor.Report side effects directly to the FDA by calling 800-FDA-1088.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be taken if you have an allergy to inclisiran, the active ingredient, or any of the inactive ingredients. Below is a complete list of ingredients.Inform your doctor if any of these conditions apply to you, such as severe kidney disease or severe liver disease.This injection is not recommended for anyone under the age of 18.
Pregnancy
Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or plan to get pregnant. This medicine should not be used during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding
Inform your doctor if breastfeeding is planned or if you plan to. This medicine does not pass into human milk. Your doctor will compare the benefits and risks of the treatment for you, as well as the risks for your child, with the risks associated with breastfeeding.
How to take Leqvio?
- Your injection will be administered by a healthcare professional. It is injected subcutaneously (under your skin) into your abdomen, upper arm, or thigh. Avoid injecting in areas with active skin diseases or injuries, such as sunburns, skin rashes, or infections.
- This medication is an addition to a statin and a better diet.
- After the initial injection, it is repeated every 3 months for 3 months and then once a year after that.
- If you stop taking this medication, your LDL cholesterol level may rise. Talk to your doctor before stopping.
Details on dosage
Leqvio dosage:
- Initially, 284 mg is given as an injection subcutaneously, followed by another at 3 months and every 6 months thereafter.
Leqvio comes in a prefilled single-dose syringe of 284 mg/1.5 mL (189 mg/mL).Inclisiran only forms part of a comprehensive treatment programme, which includes statin medications, diet, and regular blood tests.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you have missed a dose in less than three months, see your doctor for another dose. Otherwise, continue your regular dosing schedule.If you have missed a dose and it's been over 3 months since the last dose, see your doctor and start a new schedule. Start with a first dose, followed by another at 3 months and every 6 months thereafter.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses of this medication are not treated specifically. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for any side effects and treat them as necessary.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.Leqvio should not be affected by drugs that inhibit or stimulate cytochrome P450 transporters or enzymes.
