Alirocumab, Praluent
Description: Antilipemic Agent, PCSK9 Inhibitor; Monoclonal Antibody
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
Alirocumab, Praluent is a human monoclonal antibody (IgG1 isotype) that binds to PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kexin type) protein and inhibits its ability to bind to low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) on the liver which increases the liver’s ability to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood.
Indications For Use
Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia, secondary prevention of cardiovascular events
Precautions
Before starting Alirocumab, Praluent makes sure your physician is aware of any allergies and medications you currently take.
Usual Dosing
Subcutaneous Injection: Inject 75mg every 2 weeks or 300mg every 4 weeks. May increase to 150mg every 2 weeks if inadequate response.
Pharmacist Tips On Using
How to Take: If refrigerated, allow standing at room temperature for at least 30-40 minutes prior to use (do not warm with heat or hot water). Administer subcutaneously into areas of the abdomen (except for the 2-inch area around the navel), thigh, or upper arm; only use areas that are not tender, bruised, red, or indurated. For the 300 mg dose, administer two 150 mg injections consecutively at 2 different injection sites. Store at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the outer carton to protect from light. If needed, the solution may be kept at room temperature up to 25°C (77°F) for a maximum of 30 days in the original carton to protect from light.
You Need to Avoid: Do not coadminister with other injectable drugs at the same injection site. Rotate the injection site with each injection. Do not administer if the window on the pen/syringe is solid yellow (indicates the pen/syringe has been used). Do not use the prefilled syringe if the blue cap is missing or loose, if it has been dropped, or if damaged; avoid touching the yellow safety cover.
Do not store >25°C (>77°F). After removal from the refrigerator, the solution must be used within 30 days or discarded. Do not freeze. Do not expose to extreme heat. Do not shake.
Side Effects
Local injection site reaction, diarrhea, hypersensitivity reaction, antibody development, myalgia, muscle spasm
Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Alirocumab, Praluent only common ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if side effects are intolerable?
If side effects are causing a lot of distress speak to your physician as soon as possible to discuss options.