What is Evkeeza?
Evkeeza, also known as evinacumab, belongs to a group of drugs called monoclonal anti-angiopoietin-3 (ANGPTL3) antagonist antibodies.Evkeeza is used in combination with other medications for the treatment of high blood cholesterol, which affects adults and children older than 5 years.Evkeeza lowers the level of low-density cholesterol (LDL, or 'bad cholesterol'), and other fatty substances (such as triglycerides) in the blood for patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. (HoFH is an inherited condition where cholesterol cannot be eliminated from the body in a normal manner.) This medicine should not be used to treat high cholesterol caused by diet or any other factor.Evkeeza reduces the production of LDL and increases the breakdown of LDL and other fatty substances within the body.
Side effects of Evkeeza
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives or rash; itching; feeling lightheaded; wheezing; difficulty breathing; swelling in your face, lips, and throat;Some side effects can occur during the injection. You should tell your doctor if you experience nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, itching, sweating, chest tightness, or backache.If you experience certain side effects, your treatment may be delayed.
Evkeeza may cause the following side effects:
- Cold or flu symptoms include fever and chills; body aches; stuffy noses; sneezing; and a sore neck.
- Dizziness;
- Your arms or legs may be experiencing discomfort.
- Nausea;
- Lack of energy
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor.Contacting the FDA in regards to adverse events is simple, at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Evkeeza should only be used as directed. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medications you take, including vitamins, herbal products, nutritional supplements, and prescription drugs.If you have any inquiries, it would be beneficial to reach out directly to either your doctor or pharmacist..
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to evinacumab, Evkeeza should not be used.Evinacumab can harm an unborn child. A pregnancy test may be needed to confirm that you are not pregnant. Use birth control for at least five months after you have finished using evinacumab.Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. Before starting treatment with Evkeeza, you may be required to perform a pregnancy test. You shouldn't become pregnant while receiving evinacumab. Use effective birth control during treatment and up to 5 months following your last dose. Call your doctor immediately if you become pregnant after receiving Evkeeza.Ask your doctor if you can safely breastfeed while taking this medication.
How to take Evkeeza?
Evkeeza can be infused through an intravenous line (IV) into a vein. This is done once a month. This injection will be given by a healthcare provider.The medicine should be taken slowly, over a period of 60 minutes.Call your healthcare provider to reschedule any missed infusion appointments.If you experience certain side effects, your healthcare provider may reduce the rate of infusion, temporarily stop, or stop Evkeeza treatment permanently.Pakeeza may be prescribed along with other medicines that lower cholesterol. Follow your doctor's instructions for using the other medicines prescribed.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia:
15 mg/kg IV once a week (every four weeks).
Comments:
Assess LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol when clinically indicated. LDL can be measured even two weeks after starting therapy.
The effects of the drug on cardiovascular morbidity or mortality have yet to be determined.
Use: As an addition to other LDL-lowering therapies in the treatment of homozygous family hypercholesterolemia.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia:
12 years and older: 15 mg/kg IV once a week (every four weeks).
Comments:
Assess LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol when clinically indicated. LDL can be measured even two weeks after starting therapy.
The effects of the drug on cardiovascular morbidity or mortality have yet to be determined.
Use: As an addition to other LDL-C-lowering treatments for the treatment of homozygous familial high cholesterol.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you missed your appointment to receive your Evkeeza, call your doctor and ask for instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
In a medical environment, an overdose is treated immediately.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
There may be interactions with other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.
