AIMOVIG 70mg/ml Injection/Solution for

What is AIMOVIG 70mg/ml

AIMOVIG (generic name: Erenumab) is a prescription medication used for the prevention of migraine in adults. It is administered as a once-monthly subcutaneous injection via a pre-filled pen (auto-injector). AIMOVIG belongs to a new class of drugs known as CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) receptor antagonists.

• Indication: Preventive treatment of episodic and chronic migraines in adults.
• Dosage Form: Subcutaneous injection, supplied as a 70mg/ml pre-filled pen.
• Brand Name: AIMOVIG
• Generic Name: Erenumab
• Therapeutic Class: Monoclonal antibody / CGRP receptor antagonist

This medication is particularly beneficial for individuals who experience frequent migraines and have found little relief from traditional oral preventive therapies such as beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants.

Unlike acute treatments for migraine (like triptans or NSAIDs), AIMOVIG is not used to treat migraine attacks once they start. Instead, it works preventively to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks over time. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant reduction in monthly migraine days in patients taking AIMOVIG compared to placebo.

How to use AIMOVIG 70mg/ml

AIMOVIG is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) once a month, typically using an auto-injector (pre-filled pen). Patients may self-inject the medication after proper training by a healthcare provider, or it may be administered by a medical professional.

• Dosage: The typical dose is 70mg injected once every 4 weeks. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend a higher dose of 140mg (two injections of 70mg) monthly.
• Administration Site: Common injection sites include the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Avoid injecting into areas that are tender, bruised, red, or hard.
• Preparation: Allow the AIMOVIG pre-filled pen to reach room temperature (about 30 minutes) before use. Do not heat or shake the pen.
• Instructions: Follow the instructions provided with the auto-injector carefully. Wash your hands before injection, and use an alcohol swab to clean the injection site.
• Disposal: Used pens should be disposed of in a designated sharps container. Do not reuse the pen.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, then continue your monthly schedule from that date. Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed one. Always consult your doctor if you're unsure how to proceed.

Patients should also schedule regular follow-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness and any potential side effects of the treatment.

Mode of Action AIMOVIG 70mg/ml

AIMOVIG (Erenumab) works by targeting and blocking the activity of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor, which is involved in migraine pathophysiology. CGRP is a neuropeptide that plays a key role in the transmission of pain and the dilation of blood vessels in the brain during a migraine attack.

• Target: CGRP receptor located on nerve cells and blood vessels in the brain.
• Action: Erenumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that binds to the CGRP receptor, preventing CGRP from activating it.
• Effect: By blocking this pathway, AIMOVIG reduces the frequency and intensity of migraine episodes.

The CGRP pathway has been strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of migraines. During a migraine attack, CGRP levels are elevated, leading to vasodilation and inflammation, which contribute to the pain and neurological symptoms. By preventing this cascade at the receptor level, AIMOVIG helps to avert the onset of migraine attacks.

Unlike older treatments that act on multiple systems and may cause a wide range of side effects, AIMOVIG’s highly targeted action allows for a more favorable safety profile with fewer systemic effects. This makes it particularly suitable for patients who cannot tolerate or do not respond to traditional preventive therapies.

AIMOVIG 70mg/ml Interactions AIMOVIG 70mg/ml

AIMOVIG (Erenumab) is a monoclonal antibody and is not metabolized by liver enzymes such as CYP450, making drug interactions relatively uncommon. However, it’s important to review any concurrent medications with your healthcare provider.

• Minimal Drug Interactions: As a biologic agent, AIMOVIG has a low potential for pharmacokinetic interactions with other medications.
• No Known Interaction with: Triptans, NSAIDs, antidepressants, beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, or hormonal contraceptives.
• Vaccine Interaction: No significant effect on vaccine efficacy, but consult your doctor before receiving live vaccines.
• Immunosuppressants: Use with caution in patients on immunosuppressive therapies. Although AIMOVIG doesn’t significantly suppress the immune system, combined effects should be monitored.
• Other CGRP inhibitors: Avoid concurrent use with other monoclonal antibodies targeting the CGRP pathway to prevent additive effects or unknown interactions.

Always inform your healthcare provider of all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking. Even though AIMOVIG has a low potential for interactions, individualized assessment is important, especially in patients with comorbidities or those on multiple medications.

Dosage of AIMOVIG 70mg/ml

The recommended dosage of AIMOVIG (Erenumab) is determined by the severity of migraine and the patient’s response to treatment. It is available in a 70mg/ml formulation as a pre-filled pen (auto-injector).

• Standard Dose: 70 mg injected subcutaneously once every 4 weeks.
• Increased Dose: In patients who do not experience adequate response, the dose may be increased to 140 mg once monthly (administered as two consecutive 70mg injections).
• Route of Administration: Subcutaneous only; not for intramuscular or intravenous use.

Dosage does not require adjustment based on age, gender, body weight, renal or hepatic impairment, making AIMOVIG suitable for a broad range of patients. However, safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 18 years of age or in pregnant/lactating women.

It is crucial for patients to adhere to the monthly dosing schedule for optimal results. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, with the next dose scheduled 1 month from the date of the last injection. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Possible side effects of AIMOVIG 70mg/ml

While AIMOVIG is generally well tolerated, like all medications, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Most side effects are mild to moderate, but serious reactions can occur in rare cases.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Injection site reactions (pain, redness, or swelling)
  • Constipation
  • Muscle cramps or spasms
  • Fatigue
  • Cold-like symptoms (nasopharyngitis)
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Hypertension (increased blood pressure)
  • Back pain
  • Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, pruritus)
• Serious Side Effects (rare):
  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis, angioedema)
  • Constipation leading to serious gastrointestinal issues (e.g., bowel obstruction)

Patients experiencing signs of allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/throat, or severe rash, should seek emergency medical help immediately.

AIMOVIG 70mg/ml Contraindications AIMOVIG 70mg/ml

AIMOVIG should not be used in individuals with certain medical conditions or allergies. Though contraindications are few, precautions are necessary to ensure safe use.

• Known Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Erenumab or any of the excipients. Symptoms may include rash, pruritus, urticaria, or life-threatening anaphylaxis.
• Pediatric Population: Not recommended for use in patients under 18 years of age due to lack of established safety and efficacy data.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not enough data are available. AIMOVIG should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare provider after risk-benefit analysis.

It is not contraindicated in hepatic or renal impairment, but always consult your physician for tailored advice.

Storage of AIMOVIG 70mg/ml

Proper storage is essential to maintain the effectiveness and safety of AIMOVIG. Always refer to the package insert and storage label for the most accurate guidance.

• Storage Temperature: Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
• Room Temperature Use: May be stored at room temperature (up to 25°C/77°F) for a maximum of 7 days. If not used within this time, discard the product.
• Light Protection: Keep in the original carton to protect from light.
• Handling: Do not shake the pen. Avoid dropping or rough handling to prevent malfunction.
• Disposal: Used pens should be discarded in a sharps container. Follow local regulations for disposal of biologic medications.

Always check the expiry date before use and consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider if unsure about the product’s condition.