Evolocumab injection

What is this medicine?

EVOLOCUMAB (e voe LOK 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 heart surgery in patients with heart disease.

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 health care provider to get one.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 13 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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 high blood sugar such as dizziness; dry mouth; dry skin; fruity breath; nausea; stomach pain; increased hunger or thirst; increased urination

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

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

• diarrhea

• nausea

• 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 miss a dose, take it as soon as you can if there are more than 7 days until the next scheduled dose, or skip the missed dose and take the next dose according to your original schedule. Do not take double or extra doses.

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:

• an unusual or allergic reaction to evolocumab, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your health care provider for regular checks on your progress. Tell your health care provider if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

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

Do not wear the on-body infuser during an MRI.