The recommended starting dose of Praluent (Alirocumab) is 75 mg injected subcutaneously (under the skin) every 2 weeks. Depending on the effectiveness of the medication, your doctor may increase your dose to 150 mg every 2 weeks, but most people find that the lower dose is enough. Alternatively, your doctor may recommend a dose of 300 mg injected once every 4 weeks. This will involve 2 separate injections of 150 mg of Praluent (Alirocumab).
Subcutaneous injections are administered in the abdomen, upper arm, or thigh area. Change the injection site with each injection to keep your skin healthy.
Do not use the injection if it is discoloured or if particles are present.
If you are injecting Praluent (Alirocumab) yourself, your doctor will show you how to use Praluent (Alirocumab) properly. If you are not sure how to use it or have questions about how to use it, contact your doctor. Before using Praluent (Alirocumab), thoroughly read the patient information provided and ask your doctor if you have any questions. If a family member or caregiver will be giving you the injections, your doctor should instruct them on how to give the injection.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take Praluent (Alirocumab) exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you are injecting Praluent (Alirocumab) every 2 weeks and you miss a dose, and it is within 7 days of the missed dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular dosing schedule. If it is more than 7 days since the missed dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. If you are injecting Praluent (Alirocumab) every 4 weeks and it is within 7 days of the missed dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular dosing schedule. If it is more than 7 days since the missed dose, take the missed dose, and start a new schedule from the day you remember to take your dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store Praluent (Alirocumab) in the refrigerator, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children. Do not freeze Praluent (Alirocumab). Allow the medication to warm to room temperature for 30 to 40 minutes before you inject it. Once it is removed from the refrigerator, it must be used within 24 hours and must not be put back into the refrigerator.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.