What is Ajovy Autoinjector?
Ajovy Autoinjector is a calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor blocker that is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. It is used for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults, including migraine with aura, atypical migraine, migraine without aura, chronic migraine, cluster headaches, and more. This effective treatment option is only approved for use in adults 18 years of age and older.
How does Ajovy Autoinjector work?
Ajovy Autoinjector has the active ingredient fremanezumab, which is a monoclonal antibody used to block a protein called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). By blocking this protein, Ajovy Autoinjector stops specific cellular processes in the brain that are believed to be involved in what causes migraine headaches.
What doses of Ajovy Autoinjector are available?
There are two dosing options for Ajovy Autoinjector: 225mg monthly or 675 mg quarterly (every three months). Both the single-dose prefilled autoinjector and single-dose prefilled syringe comes in a 225 mg/1.5 ml solution.
How do you use Ajovy Autoinjector?
Read the Instructions for Use, Patient Information Leaflet, and talk to your healthcare provider about step-by-step instructions before using Ajovy Autoinjector.
It is given by subcutaneous injection (under the skin) in the abdomen, upper arm, or thigh. It can be administered by a healthcare provider, caregiver, or by yourself.
You can take Ajovy Autoinjector 225 mg once a month or 675 mg once every 3 months.
If you are taking Ajovy Autoinjector 675 mg every 3 months, you have to use 3 separate autoinjectors or 3 separate syringes. When giving 3 subcutaneous injections of Ajovy Autoinjector, you can use the area to inject this medication, but you cannot use the same spot.
What are the side effects of Ajovy Autoinjector?
The most common side effects of Ajovy Autoinjector in clinical trials compared to placebo include:
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Injection site reactions
Rarely, Ajovy Autoinjector may cause some serious adverse reactions, including:
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Allergic reactions, including rash, itching, hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your face, mouth, tongue, or throat can occur anywhere between hours and up to 1 month after receiving a dose of this medication.
Contact your healthcare professional for medical advice about any possible adverse effects you experience while taking Ajovy Autoinjector. You can report your adverse effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Ajovy Autoinjector drug interactions
When Ajovy Autoinjector 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 Ajovy Autoinjector include:
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Efgartigimod alfa
Ajovy Autoinjector precautions and contraindications
You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have a:
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Severe hypersensitivity to fremanezumab-vfrm or to any of the inactive ingredients. Let your doctor know if you have any hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and angioedema. If hypersensitivity occurs, consider discontinuing Ajovy Autoinjector and instituting appropriate therapy.
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Chance of being pregnant, already pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Is there a generic available for Ajovy Autoinjector?
Currently, no generic is available for Ajovy Autoinjector in the United States.
How do you store Ajovy Autoinjector?
Ajovy Autoinjector should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Make sure it is protected from direct sunlight and heat. Keep it in its carton while storing. If needed, Ajovy Autoinjector may be stored in its carton at room temperature up to 86°F (30°C) for up to 7 days. If it has been out of the refrigerator for seven days or longer, do not use and dispose of it in a disposal or puncture-resistant container. Do not store in the refrigerator if your Ajovy Autoinjector has been stored at room temperature. Do not freeze. Throw it away in an FDA-approved sharps disposal container if it freezes. Never through Ajovy Autoinjector away in the household trash. Do not shake and keep it out of reach of small children.
Related medications
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Aimovig (erenumab)
Sources
Prescribing Information: https://www.ajovy.com/globalassets/ajovy/ajovy-pi.pdf
GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/ajovy/what-is#alternatives
Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/fremanezumab,ajovy.html