Evolocumab, which is a monoclonal antibody, belongs to a class of medications called PCSK9 inhibitors. It can inhibit a substance in the body to boost the ability of the liver to uptake lipids, thus lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. Although Evolocumab can greatly reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL, “bad cholesterol”) levels, It is not the first-line agent for hyperlipidemia in Hong Kong due to its price and route of administration. The detailed indications include:
Evolocumab is administered subcutaneously.
For homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH):
420 mg once monthly, and may increase to 420 mg once every 2 weeks if clinically meaningful response is not achieved in 12 weeks. It is used as an adjunct to other LDL–lowering therapies.
For hyperlipidemia and prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with established cardiovascular disease:
140 mg every 2 weeks OR 420 mg once monthly. It is used as an adjunct to diet, alone or in combination with other LDL-lowering therapies.
Common side effects of Evolocumab include nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, back pain, injection site reactions.
Common dosing schedule:
Evolocumab can be injected into the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen at any time of the day, except for a two-inch area around your belly button.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Evolocumab may interact with:
In Hong Kong, Evolocumab is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Evolocumab in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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