This medication is used to treat Alzheimer's disease. It
is thought to work by decreasing a certain substance (amyloid beta) that
builds up in the brain of a person with Alzheimer's disease. Lecanemab
belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. This medication
is not a cure for Alzheimer's disease. It may help slow down worsening of
this disease and may delay disability.
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist
before you start using lecanemab and each time you receive an injection. If
you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into a vein as
directed by your doctor, usually every 2 or 4 weeks. The injection is given
by a health care professional, usually over 1 hour. The dosage is based on
your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.
Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of
this drug and for some time afterward. Your doctor may prescribe other
medications before each treatment to help prevent these side effects. Tell
your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of infusion reactions such
as shortness of breath, fever, chills, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, or
dizziness. Your doctor may slow down or stop your infusion for some
time.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a
reminder.
See also Warning and How to Use sections.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using lecanemab, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
See also Warning section.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as genetic testing, MRI
scans, cognitive assessment) should be done before you start using this
medication and while you are using it. Keep all medical and lab
appointments.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or clinic and will not be stored at home.