Praluent (Alirocumab)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Praluent Used For?
Praluent is an injectable medication that helps lower high cholesterol levels in the blood. It is used in conjunction with other cholesterol-lowering treatments.
Primary Uses
Praluent is primarily used to reduce LDL cholesterol levels in adults who cannot achieve adequate cholesterol reduction through diet and exercise alone.
How It Works
Praluent works by blocking the PCSK9 protein, which increases the number of LDL receptors available to remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Good to know: Praluent is not addictive.
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How to Take Praluent
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when using Praluent. It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosage.
Dosage Instructions
The recommended starting dose is either 75 mg every two weeks or 300 mg every four weeks. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your cholesterol levels.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose by less than 7 days, inject it as soon as possible. If more than 7 days have passed, wait until your next scheduled dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Diarrhea
- Rash or purple spots on the skin
- Hives
- Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, pain)
- Itching
- Muscle pain
- Flu-like symptoms (sore throat, runny nose, sneezing)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or other body parts
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before using Praluent.
Who Should Not Take Praluent
Do not use Praluent if you have a known allergy to alirocumab or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, kidney or liver problems, or if you are taking other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
The effects of Praluent during pregnancy are unknown, and it is not recommended for pregnant women. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interfere with how Praluent works.
Alcohol & Driving
There are no specific warnings regarding alcohol consumption or driving while taking Praluent.
Storage
Store Praluent in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze or expose it to heat. Keep it protected from light.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or go to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Praluent helps lower cholesterol levels over time, but individual results may vary based on adherence to the prescribed regimen.
There are no specific dietary restrictions mentioned for taking Praluent.
No, Praluent is not considered addictive.
If you stop taking Praluent, your cholesterol levels may rise again, so it's important to follow your doctor's advice.
There are no specific warnings against alcohol consumption while taking Praluent.
Weight gain is not listed as a known side effect of Praluent.
Consult your doctor, especially if there are any concerns regarding other health conditions.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.