What is Galcanezumab?
Galcanezumab can be used to treat migraine headaches in adults. Galcanezumab can also be used to treat adult cluster headaches. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of galcanezumab.
Side effects of Galcanezumab
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat. A reaction to galcanezumab may occur up to a week after the injection.
Side effects of galcanezumab include:
- Pain, inflammation, itching, or irritation at the injection site.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor.Contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report side effects.
Warnings
Before taking any medication, always read all instructions provided on the package or label and consult your healthcare provider regarding any medical conditions, allergies or medicines you are currently taking.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to galcanezumab, do not use it. Galcanezumab should not be used by anyone under the age of 18. Inform your doctor that you are expecting. Galcanezumab is not known to harm an unborn child. Preeclampsia can be caused by migraine headaches. Preventing migraines can be more beneficial than the risks for your baby. Breast-feeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.
Similar/related drugs
Botox, Qulipta, Acetaminophen, Prednisone, Ibuprofen, Amitriptyline, and Naproxen
How to take Galcanezumab?
Read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions. Follow the directions on the label. Galcanezumab can be injected into the skin. An experienced healthcare provider may teach you how to use your medication effectively. Galcanezumab can be used to prevent migraine headaches. It is typically given in a two-shot first dose, followed by one injection every month. Galcanezumab can be used to treat cluster headaches. It is typically given in three injections at the beginning of the period of cluster headaches. Then 1 injection per month up until the end. Do not forget to follow your doctor's instructions. Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication.. If you do not understand any instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist, seek help immediately from them.
Prepare an injection only when it is time to administer it. If the medicine appears cloudy or has changed color or contains particles, do not take it. For any new medication you require contact your pharmacist directly. Refrigerator storage of galcanezumab should be done away from sunlight; any medications must not be frozen or shaken prior to consumption. Store galcanezumab at room temperature for no more than seven days prior to using. Do not place in the fridge. Before injecting, take steps to bring the medicine up to room temperature for at least 30 minutes by leaving it out in direct sunlight, hot water bath or using a microwave. Then warm using hot water, sunshine or microwave. Each prefilled pen or syringe should only be used once, no matter if some medicine remains. Once used, discard immediately even if medicine has not yet been completely taken from within it.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for migraine prophylaxis:
Initial dose: 240mg subcutaneously
Maintenance dose: 120mg subcutaneously every month.
Comments:
The first dose consists of two consecutive 120-mg subcutaneous injections.
If a missed dose occurs, administer it as soon as you can. The next dose can be planned based on the last dose.
Use: To prevent migraine headaches.
Adult dose for cluster headache:
Initial dose: 300mg subcutaneously when clusters first appear.
Maintenance dose: 300mg subcutaneously, once a week until the end of the cluster period.
Comments:
Each dose is administered in three successive subcutaneous injections, each of 100mg.
This drug should be injected monthly for a period of time that can range from a few weeks to several months.
If a missed dose occurs, administer it as soon as you can. After the last dose, the dose can be planned monthly.
Use: To treat episodic headaches.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You should take the medication as soon as possible after you realize that it is missing. Then, restart your regular injection schedule one month later. You should not take two doses to make up for a missed one.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Galcanezumab can be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
