Erenumab is used to prevent migraine (severe throbbing pain or pulsating sensation usually affecting one side of the head and is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound) in individuals who have at least 4 migraine days in a month.
Use Erenumab exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not administer more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is to be injected subcutaneously (into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen area).
Remember to rotate the injection sites. Do not inject into the same area all the time. New injection sites should be at least 1.5 inches away from the previous injection site. Do not inject near the navel (belly button).
Do not administer into moles, or areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, hard, scarred, or affected by psoriasis.
Erenumab is available as a pre-filled pen or syringe. Make sure you know how to use the specific device you have been given. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
If you or your caregiver had been given the proper training on the preparation and injection techniques of this medicine, you or your caregiver may do the administration.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition and your response to medication.
Inject the missed dose as soon as you remember and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you forgot to administer your dose.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- high blood pressure
- history of constipation
- recent heart problems
- disease of the blood vessels supplying the brain
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Erenumab to the elderly. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Your blood pressure may rise to unsafe levels without you noticing it. Monitor your blood pressure regularly during treatment.
- Regular monitoring of signs of allergic reactions and severe constipation may also be needed.
Erenumab may cause any of the following side effects: muscle cramps and injection site pain, redness, or itching.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C.
Do not freeze Erenumab otherwise, it will no longer be effective and should not be used.
If removed from the refrigerator, the injection can be stored at room temperature not exceeding 30°C and can only be used within 7 days. Throw away any injection that has been left at room temperature for a longer period.
If you notice that the injection has changed colour or has become cloudy, do not use it. Throw it away and use a new injection.
Protect from light. Do not shake.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.