Aplevant 0.75mg Pre-filled Pen

Introduction

Aplevant is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Dulaglutide. It is available in the form of a pre-filled pen for convenient and easy administration.

Uses

Aplevant is primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is prescribed to help control blood sugar levels in adults with this condition.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Aplevant is individualized based on the patient’s needs and the guidance of their healthcare provider. It is administered once a week as a subcutaneous injection. The pen is designed to deliver the prescribed dose, and detailed instructions on how to use the pen are provided in the product packaging. Follow the instructions carefully and consult with a healthcare professional if there are any questions or concerns.

Mechanism of Action

Dulaglutide, the active ingredient in Aplevant, belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). It works by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in the body. GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin, reducing the production of glucose in the liver, and slowing down the emptying of the stomach. By activating GLP-1 receptors, Dulaglutide helps improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, and injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, or itching. These side effects are usually mild and transient.

However, there are also potential serious side effects that may occur, although they are rare. These may include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), severe allergic reactions, kidney problems, and thyroid tumors. Seek immediate medical attention if any signs of these serious side effects occur.

Drug Interactions

Aplevant may interact with certain medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products. Some medications that may interact with Dulaglutide include insulin and other medications used to treat diabetes. Your healthcare provider will consider these potential interactions when prescribing Aplevant and may adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Precautions

Before using Aplevant, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of pancreatitis or thyroid problems. This medication may not be suitable for everyone, and your healthcare provider will assess the potential benefits and risks before prescribing it.

Be aware of any contraindications or precautions associated with Aplevant. For example, it should not be used in people with a known hypersensitivity to Dulaglutide or any of its components. Additionally, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as the safety of this medication in these situations has not been established.

Storage

Aplevant should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F). It should not be frozen. The pen should be kept in the original packaging until ready to use. If necessary, it can be stored at room temperature (up to 30°C or 86°F) for up to 14 days. After the first use, the pen should be discarded after 4 weeks, even if there is some medication remaining.

Patient Tips

• Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider on how to use Aplevant correctly.
• Keep track of your blood sugar levels regularly to monitor the effectiveness of the medication.
• If you experience any side effects or have any concerns, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to assess your response to the medication and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Store the pen properly to maintain its efficacy.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• TRULICITY 0.75 mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
• Dulaglutide (Drugs.com) [Accessed 15 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• dulaglutide pen injector (RX) [Accessed 17 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Dulaglutide Injection (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 12 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Gerstein HC, Colhoun HM, Dagenais GR, Diaz R, Lakshmanan M, Pais P, Probstfield J, Riesmeyer JS, Riddle MC, Rydén L, Xavier D, Atisso CM, Dyal L, Hall S, Rao-Melacini P, Wong G, Avezum A, Basile J, Chung N, Conget I, Cushman WC, Franek E, Hancu N, Hanefeld M, Holt S, Jansky P, Keltai M, Lanas F, Leiter LA, Lopez-Jaramillo P, Cardona Munoz EG, Pirags V, Pogosova N, Raubenheimer PJ, Shaw JE, Sheu WH, Temelkova-Kurktschiev T; REWIND Investigators. Dulaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes (REWIND): a double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial. Lancet. 2019 Jul 13;394(10193):121-130. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(19)31149-3. Epub 2019 Jun 9. [Accessed 7 Jun. 2024] Available at: