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Lecanemab Injection (Autoinjector)

What is this medication?

LECANEMAB (lek AN e mab) treats Alzheimer disease. It works by decreasing the buildup of amyloid, a protein that may cause Alzheimer disease. This may slow down the worsening of symptoms. It is a monoclonal antibody.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): LEQEMBI IQLIK

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Take medications that treat or prevent blood clots
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to lecanemab, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give it. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

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Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can, up to 6 days after the missed dose. Then take your next dose on your normal scheduled day. Do not take double or extra doses. It is important not to miss your dose. Talk to your care team about what to do if your dose is more than 6 days late.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

This medication can cause a serious side effect called amyloid related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). ARIA can cause swelling or bleeding in the brain. Some people have a genetic risk factor that increases the risk of ARIA. Your care team may test you for this risk factor. Contact your care team right away if you have a severe headache, worsening confusion, dizziness, change in vision, nausea, trouble walking, or seizures.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions or angioedema—skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs, trouble swallowing or breathing
  • Headache, worsening confusion, dizziness, change in vision, nausea, seizures
  • Injection reactions—chest pain, shortness of breath or trouble breathing, feeling faint or lightheaded

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Cough
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Refrigerator (preferred): Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep this medication in the original packaging until you are ready to take it. Protect from light. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

Room temperature: This medication may be stored at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F) for up to 14 days. Keep it in the original packaging until you are ready to take it. Protect from light. Do not return it to the refrigerator. Get rid of any unused medication after 14 days, or after it expires, whichever is first.

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To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of it safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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