Frequently asked questions for Evolocumab
Evolocumab
Q. How long does it take for Evolocumab to work?
Evolocumab can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) in just 1 month, with a 63% reduction in just 3 months. However, results may vary from one person to another. Consult your doctor if you do not see any improvement in your cholesterol levels.Q. How is Evolocumab different from statin?
Statins stop your liver from making as much cholesterol. Evolocumab helps your liver clear bad cholesterol by limiting the actions of a protein called PCSK9, which means less bad cholesterol in your blood.Q. Does Evolocumab reduce heart attacks?
Evolocumab is an injectable prescription medicine used in adults to lower cholesterol levels and thus reduce the risk of a heart attack.Q. How is Evolocumab administered?
Evolocumab is given under the skin (subcutaneously), in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm every 2 weeks or once monthly.Q. For how long should I take Evolocumab?
Evolocumab should be taken for as long as it is prescribed. If you suddenly stop taking Evolocumab, your cholesterol levels will rise once again.Q. What is LDL or bad cholesterol?
LDL or low-density lipoprotein is called bad cholesterol because it causes a buildup of cholesterol in the blood. This leads to blockage in the heart and is a direct cause of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.Q. What is HDL or good cholesterol?
HDL or high-density lipoprotein is also called good cholesterol because it carries cholesterol from your blood to your liver to be removed. This reduces the risk of heart disease.Q. How can I check my cholesterol level?
You can book a lipid profile test with any accredited laboratory. This test helps you monitor your total cholesterol, LDL levels, HDL levels, triglycerides, and the ratio between cholesterol and HDL. You may need to fast for 10-12 hours before giving your blood sample to the laboratory for testing. After receiving your test report, consult a doctor to help you evaluate your test results.Q. What is the normal cholesterol level in a blood test?
Your total cholesterol level should be 125 to 200 mg/dL, LDL should be less than 100 mg/dL, and HDL should be 40 mg/dL or higher.Q. What will happen if I have high cholesterol?
If you have a high cholesterol level, it builds up on the walls of your arteries. This condition causes arteries to become narrow, and the narrowed blood vessels reduce blood flow to the heart. This can lead to a heart attack or stroke.Q. What lifestyle changes can help improve the effectiveness of this medicine?
Along with taking Evolocumab, taking a low-fat diet, exercising regularly, reducing body weight, and limiting alcohol consumption can help improve the effectiveness of this medicine and lower cholesterol levels.