Drug dosage details for Praluent: Forms available, strengths listed, instructions for usage, and further information
Praluent, a prescription brand-name medication, is a crucial tool in managing high cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. This article aims to provide a clear and straightforward guide to using Praluent.
Praluent belongs to a group of drugs known as PCSK9 inhibitors. It is given as a subcutaneous injection, which can be self-administered into the top of your thigh or your abdomen (belly). If you use your abdomen, do not inject Praluent within 2 inches of your belly button. If you have a caregiver, they can give you the injection in your upper arm.
The typical dosing schedule for Praluent in adults with heart disease to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and unstable angina, as well as in adults with hyperlipidemia to lower LDL cholesterol, is usually 75 mg subcutaneously once every 2 weeks, which can be increased to 150 mg every 2 weeks if additional LDL-C reduction is needed. Alternatively, a dose of 300 mg once every 4 weeks (monthly) may also be used.
For adults with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, Praluent is given as an adjunct to statins or alone if statins are not tolerated, at either 75 mg or 150 mg every 2 weeks or 300 mg monthly. The dose can be individualized, with lipid levels monitored 4 to 8 weeks after starting or adjusting treatment and doses titrated up or down accordingly.
It's important to note that the exact dose and frequency are determined by the healthcare provider based on the patient's LDL cholesterol levels, goals of therapy, and response to treatment. Always follow the dosage that your doctor prescribes for you. Never change your dosage of Praluent without your doctor's recommendation.
Praluent comes as a liquid solution in a single-dose prefilled pen. If you miss a dose of Praluent by 7 days or less, take it as soon as possible. If you miss a dose by more than 7 days, your next dose will depend on your dosing schedule: If you take Praluent every 2 weeks, do not take the missed dose. Wait until your next scheduled Praluent dose. If you take Praluent every 4 weeks, take the missed dose as soon as possible. Then you'll start a new dosing schedule based on this date.
If you believe you've taken too much Praluent, call your doctor right away or contact the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use their online tool.
Praluent should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Remove Praluent from the refrigerator 30 to 40 minutes before you inject your dose and allow it to come to room temperature naturally.
For lowering LDL cholesterol, the usual starting dosage of Praluent is either 75 mg once every 2 weeks or 300 mg once every 4 weeks. For reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and unstable angina, the recommended starting dosage is the same.
Remember, while this article provides information about Praluent, it should not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication.
There are additional resources available for learning more about Praluent, such as articles on the drug's side effects, details about heart health, and managing cholesterol. Stay informed and take control of your health with Praluent.
- Deciders of medical-conditions, such as hypertension and cardiovascular health, should consider Praluent, a drug in the science of PCSK9 inhibitors, for its potential to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- When managing health-and-wellness concerns like high cholesterol and heart disease, users of Praluent can self-administer the drug as a subcutaneous injection, following guidelines on injection sites and dosing frequencies.
- In light of the importance of proper dosage, it is crucial to follow the individualized dosing regimen determined by healthcare providers for optimal cardiovascular health and hypertension management with Praluent.
