Description
Repatha (evolocumab) is a medication used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and related cardiovascular conditions in adults with cardiovascular disease. It is a human monoclonal antibody that targets and inhibits proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a protein that regulates the number of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors on liver cells. This results in increased LDL receptor clearance and decreased LDL cholesterol levels.
Uses:
Repatha is used as an adjunct to diet and other lipid-lowering therapies to reduce LDL cholesterol levels in adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH), or clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), who require additional lowering of LDL cholesterol.
Storage Conditions:
Repatha should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) in its original packaging. It should not be frozen or shaken. Once removed from the refrigerator, it should be used within 30 minutes.
Mechanism of Action:
Repatha is a human monoclonal antibody that targets and inhibits PCSK9, a protein that regulates the number of LDL receptors on liver cells. By blocking PCSK9, Repatha increases LDL receptor clearance, which leads to the removal of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
HOW TO USE:
Repatha is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) once every two weeks or once a month. The dosage is based on the patient’s LDL cholesterol level and medical history. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when taking Repatha.
Precautions:
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Repatha may increase the risk of infections, and patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have a history of recurrent infections or are taking immunosuppressive therapy.
• Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to the medication or its components should avoid taking Repatha.
Drug Interactions:
• Repatha may interact with other medications, such as blood thinners, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all the medications they are taking before starting Repatha.
Contraindications:
• Repatha should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to the medication or its ingredients.
• It is not recommended for patients with active liver disease or severe renal impairment.
Overdose:
There is limited information on the overdose of Repatha. However, patients who take a higher-than-prescribed dosage of Repatha should seek medical attention.
Adverse Reactions:
The most common adverse reactions experienced by patients taking Repatha include injection site reactions, such as pain, swelling, and redness. Other potential side effects include allergic reactions, respiratory infections, and flu-like symptoms. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual symptoms while taking Repatha.
In conclusion, Repatha is a medication used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and related cardiovascular conditions in adults with cardiovascular disease by reducing LDL cholesterol levels. It is administered subcutaneously once every two weeks or once a month. Before taking Repatha, patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medical conditions they have, including pregnancy or liver or kidney disease, and all medications they are taking. Repatha should not be taken by patients with a history of hypersensitivity or active liver disease. Side effects may include injection site reactions and respiratory infections, among others. Patients should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual symptoms while taking Repatha.
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