Treatment with erenumab, also known as Aimovig

The preparation

Aimovig is specifically developed to prevent migraine and is approved for adults who experience at least 4 attacks per month.

Mechanism of action

It is known that CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide), which is produced in our nervous system, plays an active role in a migraine attack.

Aimovig works by specifically blocking the CGRP receptor, thereby preventing the spread of signals to the brain. This can reduce the frequency and severity of your migraine attacks.

Aimovig has a half-life of approximately 28 days.

Side effects

Injection site reactions, constipation, itching, muscle cramps, and hair loss. 

In rare cases, Aimovig may cause high blood pressure.

Precautions

If you have a history of constipation or certain types of cardiovascular disease, you should not use Aimovig.

Aimovig must not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. 

You must have stopped taking Aimovig for at least 5 months before trying to become pregnant.

Before starting treatment

Blood pressure monitoring. 

Blood pressure should also be monitored regularly every 3-6 months while you are being treated with Aimovig. 

What is the dosage?

You must inject 1 dose of 70 mg or 140 mg once every month (one pen), depending on the dose prescribed by your doctor. 

How is Aimovig taken?

We recommend taking Aimovig out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before use.

Do NOT shake the Aimovig pen.

Aimovig can be injected into the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. 

1. Check that the liquid in the pen is clear and free of sediment. 
2. Pull the cap straight off the pen and stretch or pinch the skin where you wish to inject.
3. Place the pen at a 90-degree angle and press it against the skin so that the small yellow cap around the needle is no longer visible. 
4. You can now press the plunger all the way down. It is important to maintain pressure for 5-10 seconds after the yellow plunger in the window has reached the bottom and made a "click" sound.

Storage

Aimovig must be stored in a refrigerator at 2-8°C, protected from light. Do not freeze.

Since Aimovig is sensitive to temperature changes, it must be transported in the cooling bag provided to you when you start treatment.

The cooling bag can maintain the temperature for up to 11 hours. You must therefore always bring your cooling bag with the two frozen ice packs when picking up new medication at the pharmacy or if you need to travel with Aimovig.

If the cold chain is broken, Aimovig can be used within 7 days at room temperature, not exceeding 25°C.

Unused pens must be discarded after this period, as they must not be placed back in the refrigerator.