Inclisiran Sodium
Leqvio
Leqvio (Inclisiran Sodium) is a prescription medication used in adults to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol. It’s indicated explicitly for conditions like heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Leqvio is administered as a subcutaneous injection every six months, typically alongside a statin and a balanced diet. It works by inhibiting the production of PCSK9 in the liver, thereby increasing the liver’s ability to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood. While generally well-tolerated, Leqvio can cause side effects, ranging from mild injection site reactions to more serious allergic responses. The medication is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and patients with a history of allergic reactions to its ingredients should avoid it.
Product Overview
Leqvio (Inclisiran Sodium) is a specialized treatment aimed at lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, particularly in adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Administered as a subcutaneous injection every six months, Leqvio is typically prescribed alongside a statin and a balanced diet to maximize its cholesterol-lowering effects. The drug functions by inhibiting the liver’s production of PCSK9, a protein that destroys LDL receptors. This allows the liver to remove more LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, effectively reducing the risk of heart disease.
Leqvio is available in a single-dose prefilled syringe containing 284 milligrams (mg) of the drug in 1.5 milliliters (mL) of solution. While the medication is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects such as injection site reactions, joint pain, urinary tract infections, and, in rare cases, severe allergic reactions. Patients should be cautious if pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, as the safety of Leqvio during these conditions is not well-established. Additionally, individuals with a known allergy to any component of Leqvio should avoid using the drug.
Although Leqvio doesn’t have significant known drug interactions, it’s crucial for patients to discuss all medications, supplements, and health conditions with their healthcare provider to avoid potential issues. For those unable to take statins or those seeking alternative treatments, other medicines like evolocumab (Repatha) or alirocumab (Praluent) may be considered. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to ensure the drug’s effectiveness and manage any potential side effects.
What Are the Uses of Leqvio?
Leqvio is a medication prescribed for adults who are dealing with specific health issues related to cholesterol:
- Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia: This is a genetic condition where individuals inherit genes that cause high cholesterol levels. Leqvio is used to help manage and reduce these cholesterol levels.
- Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: This disease develops when cholesterol builds up on the walls of arteries, narrowing them and potentially leading to heart problems. Leqvio helps reduce the cholesterol that contributes to this artery narrowing.
Complementary Treatments: Doctors typically prescribe Leqvio along with a statin drug, which also helps lower cholesterol. Additionally, they recommend maintaining a balanced diet to support overall heart health and maximize the effectiveness of Leqvio.
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Leqvio?
- Form: Leqvio is administered as a liquid solution that comes in a prefilled syringe and is ready for use.
- Strength: Each syringe of Leqvio contains 284 milligrams (mg) of the medication in a total volume of 1.5 milliliters (mL) of solution.
- Administration: You will receive Leqvio as an injection under the skin, which is done at your doctor’s office. Each syringe is designed for a single use only.
This setup ensures that you receive the medication in the correct dosage, conveniently administered by healthcare professionals.
What Are the Recommended Dosage of Leqvio?
Dosage of Leqvio for Primary Hyperlipidemia
Leqvio is used to lower LDL cholesterol (often called “bad” cholesterol) in adults who have primary hyperlipidemia. This includes conditions like heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), which is a type of high cholesterol caused by genetic factors.
Dosage Schedule:
- Initial Dose: You will receive your first injection of 284 mg of Leqvio.
- Second Dose: Three months after your initial dose, you will receive another 284 mg injection.
- Subsequent Doses: After the second dose, you will continue to receive a 284 mg injection of Leqvio every six months.
This regular dosing schedule helps maintain the effectiveness of the medication in managing cholesterol levels. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and discuss any questions or concerns you have about your treatment plan.
[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How to Use Leqvio?
- Long-term Treatment: Leqvio is intended for long-term use if it proves safe and effective for you. Your doctor will guide you through the process of how it is administered, the dosage, and the frequency of administration.
- Administration Details: Leqvio is given as an injection under the skin at your doctor’s office. Typically, the first two injections are spaced three months apart. Following that, you will receive an injection every six months. Common injection sites include the upper arm, thigh, or belly. Your doctor will carefully choose an injection site, avoiding any areas with rashes, infections, inflammation, or damaged skin.
- Combination with Other Medications: Leqvio is often prescribed in combination with a statin drug, which also helps to lower cholesterol levels. Common statins include:
- Rosuvastatin (Ezallor Sprinkle, Crestor)
- Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
- Simvastatin (Zocor)
- If you are unable to take statins, your doctor might recommend a different type of cholesterol-lowering medication, such as ezetimibe (Zetia).
- This treatment plan is tailored to your specific health needs and monitored by your doctor to ensure optimal effectiveness and safety.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Leqvio Work?
Here’s how Leqvio works:
- Cholesterol Reduction: Leqvio is prescribed to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, in adults. It targets and reduces LDL cholesterol by enhancing the liver’s ability to remove it from the bloodstream.
- Mechanism of Action: The liver cells contain specific sites called LDL receptors on their surface. These receptors play a crucial role in capturing and removing LDL cholesterol from the blood, allowing it to be processed and broken down by the liver. However, a protein produced in the liver, known as PCSK9, can destroy these LDL receptors.
- Role of Leqvio: Leqvio works by inhibiting the production of PCSK9 in the liver. This action prevents the destruction of LDL receptors, thereby increasing the liver’s capacity to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood. This mechanism helps effectively reduce the overall levels of bad cholesterol in the body.
Important Safety Information for Using Leqvio
What Are the Side Effects of Leqvio?
Mild Side Effects of Leqvio: Leqvio may cause some side effects, which are generally temporary and last only a few days to weeks. If these side effects persist longer than this period, become bothersome, or intensify, it is crucial to consult your doctor or pharmacist. Common mild side effects of Leqvio include:
- Mild allergic reaction
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Pain in your legs, arms, or joints
- Bronchitis (a type of lung infection)
- Shortness of breath
- Diarrhea
- Mild injection site reactions, such as rash, skin discoloration, pain, or warmth
Serious Side Effects of Leqvio: While taking Leqvio, some people may experience severe side effects. It’s important to note that the following list does not include all possible serious side effects. If you encounter any severe reactions while on Leqvio, contact your doctor immediately. If you believe you are having a life-threatening medical emergency, dial 911 or contact your local emergency services right away. Serious side effects of Leqvio may include:
- Severe allergic reaction
- Itchiness
- Skin rash
- Flushing (temporary redness, warmth, or deepening of skin color)
- Severe injection site reaction
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Leqvio?
There are no specific severe warnings associated with the use of Leqvio. However, if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms while taking this medication, it’s essential to consult your doctor promptly. This will ensure that any potential issues are addressed quickly and appropriately.
What Are the Leqvio Precautions?
Leqvio requires careful consideration before use, and it’s important to discuss various precautions with your healthcare provider. Before starting treatment with Leqvio, make sure to inform your doctor about your complete health history. This medication may not be suitable for everyone, particularly if you have specific health conditions or other factors that could affect its safety and effectiveness. Some of these considerations include:
- Allergic Reaction: If you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to Leqvio or any of its components, it is likely that your doctor will advise against using this medication. It’s important to discuss alternative treatments with your doctor, who can recommend other medications that may be more suitable for your condition.
- Leqvio and Pregnancy: The safety of Leqvio during pregnancy is currently unknown, as there have been no clinical trials to assess its effects on pregnant individuals. The way Leqvio works to lower cholesterol suggests that it might pose risks to a developing fetus. Consequently, if you become pregnant while on Leqvio, your doctor will likely advise discontinuing its use. It’s also important to note that Leqvio is often prescribed with statin drugs, which the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally advises against using during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or considering pregnancy, please discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They may suggest alternative medications that are safer during pregnancy.
- Leqvio and Birth Control: The safety of Leqvio during pregnancy has not been established. If you are sexually active and there is a possibility of pregnancy, it is important to discuss your birth control options with your doctor while you are being treated with Leqvio. This conversation will help ensure that you are taking the necessary precautions to avoid unintended pregnancy while on this medication.
- Leqvio and Breastfeeding: The safety of using Leqvio while breastfeeding is not confirmed. Researchers do not yet know if Leqvio transfers into breast milk or how it might affect a breastfed child. Though Leqvio was found in the breast milk of animals in studies, these findings may not directly apply to humans. It’s also important to consider that Leqvio is often used with statin drugs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) typically advises against using statins during breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor. They can provide guidance on alternative treatment options and ways to safely feed your child while you are receiving treatment.
What Are the Contraindications of Leqvio?
Contraindications of Leqvio: Leqvio should not be used by individuals who have previously experienced a serious allergic reaction to inclisiran or any other components found in Leqvio. If you have had such reactions, it is crucial to inform your doctor, as this medication may not be safe for you.
What If You Missed a Dose of Leqvio?
If you miss an appointment to receive a dose of Leqvio, you should call and reschedule as soon as you remember. Here’s how to handle the timing:
- If less than 3 months have passed since the missed dose, you can simply take the missed dose when you remember and then continue with your regular treatment schedule as planned.
- If more than 3 months have passed since the missed dose, you will need to restart the treatment from the beginning of the dosing schedule.
If you’re unsure about when to take your next dose after missing an appointment, it’s essential to speak with your doctor for guidance.
To avoid missing a dose in the future, consider setting up reminders. You can use medication reminder apps, set alarms, or use timers on your phone to help you remember your appointments.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much of Leqvio?
If you accidentally receive an overdose of Leqvio, there isn’t a specific treatment to reverse the effects. In such cases, your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for any side effects that may arise from the overdose. They will provide treatment for these side effects as needed to manage any symptoms that occur.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Store a Leqvio?
- Temperature: Keep Leqvio stored at a temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
- Temperature Variations: It is safe for Leqvio to be exposed temporarily to temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
- Freezing: Do not freeze Leqvio.
- Usage: Each syringe of Leqvio is for single use only. Discard any remaining solution after use.
- Safety: Ensure that Leqvio is kept out of sight and reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Medications Interact with Leqvio?
Before beginning treatment with Leqvio, it’s essential to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about the expected outcomes of the treatment. You should also share detailed information about your overall health, any existing medical conditions, and all other medications you are currently taking. This information will help your doctor assess whether Leqvio is a safe and suitable treatment option for you.
Drug Interactions: When you use Leqvio along with certain vaccines, foods, or other substances, it can change how the medication works. These changes are known as interactions.
Before you start taking Leqvio, make sure to inform your doctor about all the medications you’re currently using, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. You should also mention any vitamins, herbs, or supplements that you are taking. Your doctor or pharmacist will be able to provide you with information on any potential interactions these items might have with Leqvio.
Interactions with Drugs or Supplements
Currently, there are no known interactions between Leqvio and other drugs or supplements. However, this does not guarantee that interactions will not be identified in the future, especially as new medications become available that may interact with it.
Therefore, it’s essential to always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new drugs or supplements while you are being treated with Leqvio.
Additionally, since Leqvio is often prescribed along with statin drugs, it’s essential to be aware that statins can interact with several other medicines and supplements. Make sure to discuss with your doctor about any potential interactions to ensure your treatment plan is safe and effective.
What Are the Other Leqvio Interactions?
- Leqvio and Alcohol: There are no known interactions specifically between Leqvio and alcohol. However, it’s common to use Leqvio in combination with statin medications, which can affect your liver. Since both statins and alcohol impact liver health, your doctor might advise you to limit your alcohol intake while on this treatment. If you consume alcohol, it’s essential to discuss with your doctor how much is safe to drink when you are taking Leqvio along with a statin.
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Leqvio. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Leqvio Alternatives?
There are various other medications available that can help manage your condition. Some of these alternatives might be more suitable for you than Leqvio. If you are considering other options, it’s crucial to have a discussion with your doctor. They can provide information about different medications that could effectively treat your condition and suit your specific health needs.
Alternatives for Primary Hyperlipidemia
For managing primary hyperlipidemia, which is high cholesterol resulting from genetic disorders, there are several other medications your doctor might consider prescribing. These include:
- Zetia (ezetimibe)
- Repatha (evolocumab)
- Crestor (rosuvastatin)
- Lipitor (atorvastatin)
- Praluent (alirocumab)
- Tricor (fenofibrate)
- Prevalite (cholestyramine)
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Leqvio Cost & Coupons
The cost of Leqvio can be significant, with prices often exceeding $1000 per month for those without comprehensive health insurance coverage. Many Americans face high out-of-pocket expenses because their insurance plans may not fully cover medications like Leqvio. To help manage these costs, some people choose to buy Leqvio online from Canada, where the medication is available at a lower price. One option to consider is purchasing Leqvio from services like Polar Bear Meds, which allows customers to order the medication in the USA from Canada. By doing so, patients can benefit from more affordable pricing. Additionally, first-time customers can use the Leqvio coupon code WELCOMEPB10 to receive a 10% discount on their initial purchase, making it easier to access this vital treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Leqvio a statin?
Leqvio is not a statin. While statins are a common type of medication used to lower cholesterol by affecting the liver’s production of cholesterol, Leqvio works differently. Often, doctors prescribe Leqvio alongside a statin because combining these medications can enhance the overall effectiveness of lowering cholesterol levels. If you have any questions about using Leqvio with a statin, it’s a good idea to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist to understand how these treatments work together for your cholesterol management.
What should I know about Leqvio vs. Repatha?
Leqvio and Repatha are medications prescribed to lower cholesterol, but they work in slightly different ways and are used for varying conditions. Both are suitable for adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that leads to high cholesterol. Additionally, Repatha can also be used in adults and some children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, another genetic cholesterol condition.
Repatha also has the added benefit of reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes in adults with specific types of heart disease. Both medications are administered via injections under the skin. Leqvio injections are given at your doctor’s office every six months after the initial two doses. Repatha is administered more frequently, either every two or four weeks, and you can learn to give yourself these injections at home. For more detailed information on how Leqvio compares to Repatha and to determine which treatment might be best for you, it’s essential to discuss it with your doctor.
How long does it take to work?
Leqvio starts working soon after the first dose is administered. Clinical trials have shown that LDL cholesterol levels typically begin to decrease within 14 days following the initial dose. However, it’s important to understand that you might not feel any different during this time, as high cholesterol usually doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. To track the effectiveness of Leqvio, your doctor will regularly check your cholesterol levels through blood tests. This monitoring helps ensure that the treatment is effectively lowering your cholesterol.
Does Leqvio (Inclisiran) lower triglycerides?
Leqvio (inclisiran), when used alongside a statin, has been shown to help lower triglyceride levels. Research indicates that after approximately 1.5 years of treatment, individuals using both Leqvio and a statin see a reduction in their triglyceride levels. Statins alone are known to reduce triglycerides by about 20 to 40%. Additionally, it’s recommended to combine Leqvio with lifestyle changes that can further help manage triglycerides. These include adopting a Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, and maintaining a regular exercise routine. These combined approaches enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment in managing cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Does Leqvio cause weight gain?
Leqvio (inclisiran) itself does not typically cause weight gain. However, it’s often prescribed along with statins, which are another type of cholesterol-lowering medication. A significant study from 2014 indicated that people who have been taking statins for around ten years might experience some weight gain, possibly due to dietary changes. To maximize the benefits of your cholesterol treatment with Leqvio, it’s crucial to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity. These habits not only support your treatment but also help in managing your weight. If you notice any changes in your weight after using Leqvio for an extended period, it’s advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
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