Generic name: erenumab (e REN ue mab)
Brand name: Aimovig
Drug class: CGRP inhibitors
Aimovig (erenumab) is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the activation of a certain protein that can produce a migraine attack. This protein, called calcitonin gene- related peptide (CGRP), can cause blood vessels to dilate and cause inflammation and migraine headache pain.
Aimovig is a prescription medicine used for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults.
Aimovig may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Before you inject Aimovig, always check the label of your single-dose prefilled autoinjector or single-dose prefilled syringe to make sure you have the correct medicine and the correct dose.
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Aimovig if you are allergic to erenumab.
Aimovig is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- an allergy to latex.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether erenumab will harm an unborn baby. However, having migraine headaches during pregnancy may cause complications such as preeclampsia (dangerously high blood pressure that can lead to medical problems in both mother and baby). The benefit of preventing migraines may outweigh any risks to the baby.
It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
How should I use Aimovig?
Use Aimovig exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.
Aimovig is injected under your skin (subcutaneously) one time each month. A healthcare provider may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.
If your healthcare provider prescribes the 70 mg dose for you, take one injection. If your healthcare provider prescribes the 140 mg dose for you, take two separate injections one after another, using a different prefilled autoinjector or prefilled syringe for each injection. If you want to use the same body site for the two separate injections, make sure the second injection it is not at the same spot you used for the first injection.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Do not use Aimovig if you don't understand all instructions for proper use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.
Prepare your Aimovig injection only when you are ready to give it. Do not use if the medicine has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
Each single-use prefilled syringe or autoinjector is for one use only. Throw it away after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.
Do not shake the syringe or autoinjector or you may ruin the medicine.
Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using only the form and strength your doctor prescribes.
Store Aimovig in its original carton in the refrigerator, away from heat and light. Do not freeze.
Take the medicine out of the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature for 30 minutes before injecting your dose. Protect from sunlight. Do not heat the medicine in hot water or in a microwave.
You may store the medicine for up to 7 days at room temperature.
Use a needle and syringe only once and then place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container. Follow state or local laws about how to dispose of this container. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Migraine Prophylaxis:
70 mg subcutaneously once a month
-Some patients may benefit from 140 mg subcutaneously once a month
Comments:
-A dose of 140 mg should be administered as 2 consecutive subcutaneous injections of 70 mg each.
Use: For the preventative treatment of migraine.
Detailed Aimovig dosage information
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take your dose or are not able to take the dose at the regular time, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. After that, you can continue to take Aimovig one time each month from the date of your last dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Aimovig?
Avoid injecting this medicine into skin that is red, bruised, tender, or hard.
Aimovig side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Aimovig: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common Aimovig side effects may include:
- constipation; or
- pain, swelling, or redness where the medicine was injected.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Aimovig?
Other drugs may interact with erenumab, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.