What is Leqvio?
Leqvio (inclisiran) is a cholesterol-lowering injection used in adults who have a condition called primary hyperlipidemia.
This medical condition happens when there is too much cholesterol in the blood, usually because of inherited (genetic) reasons.
One type of inherited high cholesterol is called heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, or HeFH.
Leqvio is used in combination with a statin drug and a healthy diet to help lower the levels of a type of cholesterol called LDL, often referred to as “bad cholesterol.”
High levels of LDL cholesterol can build up in the blood vessels and increase the risk of serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes. Leqvio works by helping the body reduce the production of LDL cholesterol.
It uses a special type of ingredient called inclisiran, which belongs to a class of drugs known as small interfering RNA (siRNA). This blocks and targets specific steps in the body that produce excessive cholesterol.
Medical practitioners administer Leqvio as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin). They administer this medication at a clinic or hospital. Patients receive the first two Leqvio injections 3 months apart, and subsequent injections occur every 6 months.
This makes it a long-acting option for individuals who require additional support in lowering their cholesterol, even if they are already taking statins and following a healthy diet.
It is important to know that Leqvio injection is only available as a brand-name product. There is no generic version at this time.
If your doctor tells you that your LDL cholesterol is still high even after using a statin, they may suggest adding Leqvio as part of your treatment plan.
How Does Leqvio Work?
Leqvio injection helps lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) in adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including HeFH, a genetic form of high cholesterol.
It works by reducing a liver protein called PCSK9, which normally raises LDL levels. With less PCSK9, the body can remove more LDL from the blood.
Leqvio starts working after the first dose, with results seen in about 14 days. You may not notice any changes, so your doctor will monitor your cholesterol levels through regular blood tests.
Leqvio Dosing and Administration
Leqvio dosing follows a set schedule to keep cholesterol levels under control. A medical practitioner will administer Leqvio under the skin at specific time points.
The Leqvio dosage and dosing schedule may differ slightly depending on individual health needs, but the general frequency is the same for most people.
Dosage Form and Strengths of Leqvio
Leqvio comes as a single-dose prefilled syringe. Each syringe contains 284 mg of inclisiran in 1.5 mL of solution.
The liquid appears clear and colorless to pale yellow in color. Inspect it before use and discard it if you see any discoloration or particles.
Leqvio Administration
- Leqvio injection is given under the skin (subcutaneous injection).
- It should be injected into the abdomen, upper arm, or thigh.
- Your doctor should administer the injection.
- Do not inject into areas with rashes, sunburns, swelling, or infection.
- The injection site should be clean and healthy.
- Leqvio injection administration must follow proper handling and storage guidelines.
- Always check that the solution is clear, not cloudy, or discolored before use.
Recommended Leqvio Dosage by Condition
Leqvio dosage for primary hyperlipidemia
For adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including HeFH, the recommended Leqvio injection dose is 284 mg. The dosing schedule is:
- First dose (Day 0)
- Second dose at Month 3
- Then every 6 months afterward
This Leqvio dosing frequency helps you maintain low LDL cholesterol levels over time. Use Leqvio with a statin and a cholesterol-lowering diet.
Leqvio dosage in special populations
There are no specific dosage adjustments for older adults or individuals with mild liver or kidney impairment. However, your doctor may monitor you more closely.
Leqvio Dosing Schedule
- Initial dose: 284 mg
- Second dose: 3 months after the first
- Maintenance dose: Every 6 months
Leqvio dosing frequency remains the same unless a dose is missed by more than 3 months, in which case the schedule restarts.
Leqvio Missed Dose
If you miss a scheduled Leqvio injection dose, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
If it has been less than 3 months, you can receive the dose and continue with your Leqvio dosing schedule.
If more than 3 months have passed, you will need to restart the Leqvio dosing schedule: one dose now, another at 3 months, and then every 6 months.
Using reminders like phone alarms or apps can help prevent missed appointments.
Leqvio Side Effects
Leqvio injection can cause both mild and serious side effects. Some people may experience common reactions like injection site pain, joint pain, bronchitis, or urinary tract infections.
Although most side effects are mild and temporary, severe injection site reactions and serious allergic reactions can happen in rare cases.
Common Side Effects
- Mild injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness, or skin color change)
- Joint pain or muscle pain
- Pain in arms or legs
- Bronchitis (cough, chest discomfort)
- Urinary tract infection (burning when urinating, frequent urination)
- Diarrhea
- Shortness of breath
These Leqvio injection side effects are usually mild and go away in a few days to weeks. Talk to your doctor if they become bothersome or last too long.
Severe Side Effects
Though serious Leqvio side effects are rare, they can still happen. Contact your doctor right away if you notice any of the following:
- Severe injection site reaction (extreme pain, large swelling, skin damage)
- Serious allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, trouble breathing)
In case of a severe reaction, call emergency services immediately.
These Leqvio long-term side effects may require urgent medical attention and necessitate switching to an alternative treatment.
Warnings and Precautions for Leqvio
While Leqvio is effective in lowering bad cholesterol, it may not be suitable for everyone. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver problems, or have had allergic reactions in the past should speak with their doctor before using this treatment.
Discuss your health history and any other medications or supplements you take with your doctor to avoid potential risks.
- Do not use Leqvio if you have had an allergic reaction to inclisiran or any ingredient in the injection.
- Talk to your doctor about severe liver problems because researchers have not studied Leqvio in people with this condition.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed, as Leqvio may harm an unborn baby or may not be safe for you and your baby.
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol while taking Leqvio with a statin because both may affect your liver.
- Tell your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- Use effective birth control during Leqvio treatment if you or your partner can become pregnant.
- Always have your cholesterol levels checked regularly to see how well Leqvio is working and to watch for side effects.
- If you experience any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Leqvio Drug Interactions
Leqvio does not interact with other drugs, supplements, or foods. However, researchers could still discover new interactions over time.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist about everything you take before starting Leqvio. Include prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
Alternatives to Leqvio
Leqvio may not suit everyone. Many other treatments can help lower cholesterol. Your doctor will help choose the option that fits your needs, health history, and lifestyle.
Some alternatives work differently or require more frequent doses, so find what works best for you.
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How to Order Leqvio Online?
- Search for Leqvio, select your dosage, and click Buy to add it to your cart.
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- Upload your prescription online, email it to info@pharmagiant.com, or fax it to 1-888-562-8159.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.
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