Repatha (Evolocumab)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Repatha Used For?
Repatha is a medication that helps lower cholesterol levels in the blood, particularly in individuals who have not been able to manage their cholesterol through diet and exercise alone.
Primary Uses
Repatha is primarily used to treat high cholesterol in adults and children aged 12 and older, especially for those with familial hypercholesterolemia. It is also used in adults with heart disease to lower the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and certain heart procedures.
How It Works
Repatha works by inhibiting a protein that leads to increased cholesterol levels, thereby lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while potentially raising HDL cholesterol.
Good to know: Repatha is not addictive.
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How to Take Repatha
Repatha is administered through an injection under the skin. It can be self-administered after proper training.
Dosage Instructions
The recommended dose for adults with high cholesterol and heart disease is either 140 mg every two weeks or 420 mg once a month. For those with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, the starting dose is 420 mg once a month, which may be increased to 420 mg every two weeks after 12 weeks.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take Repatha as soon as you remember. Contact your doctor to determine when to schedule your next dose. Do not take a double 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:
- flu or flu-like symptoms
- nausea
- skin rash
- joint pain
- back pain
- injection site reactions (redness, bruising, pain, swelling, bleeding)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- signs of an allergic reaction (shortness of breath, swelling of face or throat, skin rash with itching)
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind before using Repatha.
Who Should Not Take Repatha
Do not use Repatha if you are allergic to evolocumab or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any other medical conditions and medications you are taking with your doctor before starting Repatha.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as Repatha has not been tested in these populations.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Repatha and affect its effectiveness.
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how Repatha affects you.
Alcohol
Inform your doctor if you consume alcohol.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Repatha does not have known effects on driving, but it's advisable to avoid driving immediately after an injection.
Storage
Store Repatha in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze or shake. Keep it in the original carton to protect it from light.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Repatha may take several weeks to show effects on cholesterol levels.
There are no specific dietary restrictions mentioned for taking Repatha.
No, Repatha is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Repatha, as it may affect your cholesterol levels.
It's advisable to inform your doctor if you consume alcohol.
Weight gain is not listed as a side effect of Repatha.
Consult your doctor regarding the safety of Repatha for elderly patients.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember and contact your doctor for further instructions.
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.