What is Aimovig Autoinjector?
Aimovig is a subcutaneous injection that is used for the preventative treatment of migraines in adults. It is a monthly injection created to reduce monthly migraine days. It is manufactured by Amgen Inc/Novartis.
How does Aimovig Autoinjector work?
Aimovig is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking proteins in the brain called calcitonin gene-related peptide receptors (CGRP). Blocking these receptors helps stop pain signals and prevent migraine symptoms.
What doses of Aimovig Autoinjector are available?
Aimovig is always an injection and comes with the following strengths:
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70 mg/mL in a single-dose, prefilled SureClick® autoinjector
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70 mg/mL in a single-dose, prefilled syringe
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140 mg/mL in a single-dose, prefilled SureClick® autoinjector
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140 mg/mL in a single-dose, prefilled syringe
70 mg/mL is the most commonly prescribed dosage. All shots are FDA-approved to be taken monthly. All contents should be opalescent to clear, or colorless to yellow.
How do you use Aimovig Autoinjector?
Aimovig comes in a single-dose prefilled autoinjector or single-dose prefilled syringe. Both are intended for you to use at home. Before your first use, read the prescribing information and listen to all instructions for use that your healthcare provider gives you so that you feel comfortable administering the shot at home.
Aimovig should be kept in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) in the original carton until you are ready to give an injection. Before you give a dose, take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes away from direct sunlight. This is so that it minimizes discomfort for you and administers the entire dose.
Do not warm it up by using a heat source like hot water or a microwave. As you’re preparing for the shot, don’t shake the product. As with most medicines, inspect for any discoloration or inconsistent matter before using. If the treatment is cloudy, discolored, or contains particles or flakes, do not use it.
Pull the white or orange cap off the autoinjector, but make sure not to touch the safety guards before you inject Aimovig. Even after you press the start button, the medicine will only be administered when the safety guard is pushed into the autoinjector. Administer Aimovig subcutaneously (under the skin) in your upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. Do not inject anywhere the skin is tender, bruised, hard, or red.
What are the possible side effects of Aimovig Autoinjector?
The most common side effects of Aimovig in clinical studies compared to placebo include:
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Injection site reactions, including pain, swelling, and redness
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Muscle spasms
Rarely, Aimovig may cause some serious side effects, including:
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Allergic reactions
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Severe constipation and serious complications of constipation.
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Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Contact your healthcare professional for medical advice about any possible adverse effects you experience while taking Aimovig. You can report your adverse effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Aimovig Autoinjector drug interactions
When Aimovig is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Some drug interactions with Aimovig include:
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Efgartigimod alfa
Aimovig Autoinjector precautions
You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:
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Hypersensitivity to erenumab-aooe or to any of the inactive ingredients
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If a hypersensitivity reaction occurs, which can happen any time between one hour to weeks after injection, discontinue administration and begin appropriate therapy.
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A chance of being pregnant, are currently pregnant or are breastfeeding
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Hypertension as new or worsening high blood pressure may occur following the use of Aimovig
Is there a generic available for Aimovig Autoinjector?
Currently, there is no generic available for Aimovig in the United States.
How do you store Aimovig Autoinjector?
Keep Aimovig (erenumab) away from direct sunlight. Store in the original container in the refrigerator, but do not freeze. You can keep Aimovig (erenumab) in room temperature conditions for up to 7 days if you need, though you should not put it back in the fridge after you have removed it. Throw away any medication that has been at room temperature for more than seven days.
Related medications
There are multiple drugs that work as migraine prevention, from aura migraines to chronic migraines.
Sources
GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/aimovig/what-is
Drugs.com https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/erenumab,aimovig.html
Script Save: https://www.wellrx.com/aimovig%20autoinjector/monographs/
Aimovig: https://www.aimovig.com/start/aimovig-injection
Prescribing Information: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/761077s000lbl.pdf