Leqvio (Inclisiran): Adverse Reactions, Cost, Dosage, and Additional Information
Leqvio, a brand-name medication used for lowering cholesterol, is not a statin drug. Instead, it's prescribed in addition to a low cholesterol diet and treatment with a statin drug. Leqvio is FDA approved to help decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH).
However, it's important to note that there are currently no generic alternatives to Leqvio (inclisiran) available on the market. The medication comes as a solution inside a single-dose prefilled syringe and is administered as a subcutaneous injection.
While no generic Leqvio exists, alternatives for lowering cholesterol do. These include PCSK9 inhibitors, cholesterol absorption inhibitors such as ezetimibe (generic available), statins, sequestrants, and ACL inhibitors. Since Leqvio uses a novel siRNA mechanism to reduce PCSK9 production, its unique method currently has no generic equivalents.
Prior authorization may be required from your insurance company before covering Leqvio. The cost of the medication can vary depending on insurance, location, and pharmacy. Leqvio is meant to be a long-term treatment, with doses administered once every 6 months after the initial two doses.
Leqvio contains the active drug inclisiran and belongs to the small interfering RNA (siRNA) drug class. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully, and if you miss an appointment for a Leqvio dose, call to reschedule as soon as you remember.
It's worth mentioning that Leqvio and Repatha are medications used to lower LDL cholesterol, but they work differently and may have different side effects. Side effects of Leqvio may include mild or serious side effects, such as injection site reactions, bronchitis, joint pain, allergic reactions, and serious allergic reactions. Severe joint pain, skin rash, and swelling under the skin are possible side effects.
It's not known if Leqvio treatment is safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you have an allergic reaction to Leqvio, seek medical attention immediately. Injection site reactions are the most common reason people stop Leqvio treatment.
Financial and insurance assistance is available for Leqvio through Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. To help make sure that you don't miss an appointment for your doses, try using a medication reminder. If it's been less than 3 months since the missed dose, you can receive a dose and continue with your regular treatment schedule. If it's been more than 3 months since the missed dose, you'll need to restart the dosing for Leqvio.
In summary, while no generic Leqvio exists, alternatives for lowering cholesterol do, and treatment choice depends on individual patient needs and doctor guidance. High LDL cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, so it's crucial to manage cholesterol levels effectively. Consult with your healthcare provider for the best treatment option for you.
- Leqvio, a medication for lowering cholesterol, is not a statin drug, but is prescribed alongside a low cholesterol diet and a statin.
- Leqvio is FDA approved to decrease LDL cholesterol in adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including HeFH.
- There are currently no generic alternatives to Leqvio available on the market.
- LDL cholesterol can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, making it crucial to manage cholesterol levels effectively.
- Prior authorization from your insurance company may be required for Leqvio coverage.
- Leqvio treatment may be unsafe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Side effects of Leqvio may include injection site reactions, bronchitis, joint pain, allergic reactions, and serious allergic reactions.
- Financial and insurance assistance is available for Leqvio through Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.
- It's important to consider other medical-conditions such as asthma, diabetes, obesity, drug-induced hypertension, other heart diseases, bipolar, breast cancer, hepatitis, and cardiovascular health during health-and-wellness discussions.
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