Understanding Repatha and Your Device
Repatha (evolocumab) is a prescription medication used to lower cholesterol by inhibiting the PCSK9 protein. It is administered via subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, and patients can typically self-administer their dose at home after receiving proper training from a healthcare provider. It is available in three distinct device formats, each with specific instructions for use:
- SureClick Autoinjector: A single-dose pen device designed for ease of use, with a simple push-button activation.
- Prefilled Syringe: A standard, single-dose syringe that requires manual injection.
- Pushtronex System: A hands-free, on-body infusor for monthly 420 mg doses, which delivers the medication over approximately five minutes.
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the medication's effectiveness. Repatha should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) in its original carton to protect it from light. It is important to take the device out of the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before injection to allow it to reach room temperature, which can help minimize discomfort during the injection.
Step-by-Step Injection Guide
Before beginning, gather all necessary supplies: your Repatha device, an alcohol swab, a cotton ball or gauze, a bandage, and a sharps disposal container. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the medication.
Injecting with the SureClick Autoinjector
- Prepare: Let the autoinjector warm to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Inspect the device to ensure the solution is clear and the expiration date has not passed.
- Select Site: Choose an injection site on your abdomen (at least 2 inches away from your navel) or thigh. Clean the area with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely.
- Position: Pinch or stretch a 2-inch area of skin to create a firm surface.
- Remove Cap: Pull the orange cap straight off. Do not twist it. Inject within 5 minutes of removing the cap.
- Inject: Place the yellow safety guard firmly against your skin at a 90-degree angle. Press the gray start button until you hear a click.
- Hold and Wait: Continue holding the autoinjector firmly against your skin for up to 15 seconds until the yellow indicator window is completely full. You may hear a second click.
- Remove: Lift the autoinjector straight off your skin.
Injecting with the Prefilled Syringe
- Prepare: Allow the syringe to warm to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Check the solution for clarity and the expiration date.
- Select Site: Choose an injection site on your abdomen or thigh. Clean the site with an alcohol swab and let it dry.
- Pinch Skin: Gently pinch a 2-inch fold of skin between your thumb and finger.
- Remove Cap: Carefully remove the gray needle cap.
- Inject: Hold the syringe like a pen and insert the needle at a 45- to 90-degree angle into the pinched skin.
- Administer Dose: Slowly and steadily push the plunger down until the syringe is empty.
- Remove: Release the pinched skin and gently lift the syringe out of your skin.
Administering with the Pushtronex System
For monthly 420 mg doses, the Pushtronex on-body infusor offers a hands-free option. The detailed steps involve loading a cartridge, peeling adhesive tabs, applying the device to a flat skin surface, and pressing a start button. The infusion takes about 5 minutes, with beeping and light indicators marking its progress and completion.
Injection Site Selection and Rotation
Choosing the right injection site and rotating it is important for minimizing discomfort and preventing injection site reactions like pain, redness, or bruising.
- Approved Sites: Abdomen (avoiding the 2-inch area around the navel), front of the thighs, and the outer area of the upper arm (if someone else is giving the injection).
- Areas to Avoid: Never inject into skin that is tender, bruised, hard, red, or areas with scars or stretch marks.
- Rotation: Use a different spot for each injection. If you must use the same general area, ensure it is not the exact same location as the previous one.
Comparison of Injection Methods
Understanding the differences between the Repatha devices can help ensure a smooth injection experience.
| Feature | SureClick Autoinjector | Prefilled Syringe | Pushtronex System |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dose | 140 mg | 140 mg | 420 mg |
| Dosing Schedule | Every 2 weeks (or 3 consecutive injections monthly for 420 mg dose) | Every 2 weeks (or 3 consecutive injections monthly for 420 mg dose) | Once monthly |
| Mechanism | Automatic, push-button activation | Manual, push-plunger injection | Hands-free, on-body infusion |
| Injection Time | ~15 seconds | Varies with plunger speed | ~5 minutes |
| Device Handling | Point-and-press | Pinch and inject at angle | Apply to skin with adhesive |
| Latex | May contain natural rubber latex in the needle cover | May contain natural rubber latex in the needle cover | Does not contain natural rubber latex |
What to Do After Your Injection
Once the injection is complete, withdraw the device from your skin. Discard the used device and any other supplies into a designated sharps disposal container immediately. Do not reuse the device or recap needles. If you notice a small amount of bleeding or bruising, this is normal. Apply gentle pressure with a cotton ball or gauze, but avoid rubbing the site, which can cause irritation. A bandage can be used if needed.
Handling Missed Doses
If you forget a dose, the action you take depends on your treatment schedule. For a bi-weekly schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember if it's within 7 days. If more than 7 days have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. For a monthly schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember and start a new monthly schedule from that date. Never double your dose to make up for a missed one. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about missed doses.
Conclusion
Mastering how to inj repatha is a manageable process with the right knowledge and guidance. By preparing correctly, understanding your specific device, selecting and rotating injection sites, and following proper post-injection care, you can ensure a safe and effective self-administration experience. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns regarding your Repatha injections to ensure the best possible results. For further details, refer to the official Repatha website for instructional materials.
