AIMOVIG (Erenumab)

What is this medication?

AIMOVIG (Erenumab)
Antimigraine Agent, Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) Receptor Antagonist

AIMOVIG (Erenumab) is indicated for the treatment of migraine prophylaxis.

How does this medication work? 

AIMOVIG (Erenumab) is a human monoclonal antibody that antagonizes calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor function and essentially prevents CGRP from emitting migraine-associated pain signals.

How should I take this medication? 

SQ: Inject 70mg subcutaneously once monthly; some patients have benefited from a higher dose of 140mg once monthly.

How to Take: Inject subcutaneously out of the direct sunlight and allow to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before administration.  Do not warm using a heat source (i.e. hot water, microwave) and do not shake. Administer in abdomen (avoiding 2 inches around the navel), thigh or upper arm, avoiding areas of skin that are tender, bruised, red or hard. Deliver entire contents of single-use autoinjector or prefilled syringe.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting AIMOVIG (Erenumab), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Erenumab can cause constipation after the first dose; however later onset constipation has also been reported.  A new-onset and worsening of pre-existing hypertension can occur when using Erenumab and blood pressure should subsequently be monitored while on treatment.

What if I miss a dose?

Administer your missed dose as soon as possible, and schedule next dose for 1 month from date of the last dose.

How should I store this medication?

Store in the refrigerator at 36-46°F (2-8°C) in the original carton to protect it from light. Do not freeze.

Once out of the refrigerator, it should be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) in the original carton, and it must be used within 7 days. Throw it away if it’s been at room temperature for more than 7 days. 

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Constipation, antibody development, injection site reaction, muscle cramps and spasm.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for AIMOVIG (Erenumab), only common ones.