Alirocumab injection

What is this medicine?

ALIROCUMAB (al i ROC ue mab) is known as a PCSK9 inhibitor. It is used to lower the level of cholesterol in the blood. It may be used alone or in combination with other cholesterol-lowering drugs. This drug may also be used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and certain types of chest pain (unstable angina) that may need hospitalization.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• signs and symptoms of infection like fever or chills; cough; sore throat; pain or trouble passing urine

• signs and symptoms of liver injury like dark yellow or brown urine; general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms; light-colored stools; loss of appetite; nausea; right upper belly pain; unusually weak or tired; yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• muscle cramps

• muscle pain

• pain, redness, or irritation at site where injected

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

If you are on an every 2 week schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If your next dose is to be taken in less than 7 days, then do not take the missed dose. Take the next dose at your regular time. Do not take double or extra doses. If you are on a monthly schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If the dose given is within 7 days of the missed dose, continue with your regular monthly schedule. If the missed dose is administered after 7 days of the original date, administer the dose and start a new monthly schedule based on this date.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

You will be instructed on how to store this medicine. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• any unusual or allergic reaction to alirocumab, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.