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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Leqvio (Inclisiran) is a medication designed to combat high cholesterol, specifically targeting individuals who have been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease or who are genetically predisposed to elevated LDL cholesterol levels despite diet and lifestyle modifications. As a part of the new class of drugs called small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics, Leqvio works by silencing specific genes responsible to produce proteins involved in cholesterol metabolism. This innovative approach offers a new pathway to manage cholesterol levels effectively, providing hope for patients at risk of heart disease.
Before you buy Leqvio, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Leqvio price.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | C116H1497N301O892P40S40 (Inclisiran) |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Subcutaneous administration |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Inclisiran |
Elimination half-life | 9 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | 284 mg per dose |
Pregnancy | Not recommended |
Brands | Leqvio |
Protein binding | 60-70% |
PubChem CID | 53379952 (Inclisiran) |
MedlinePlus | Not specifically listed |
ChEBI | Not available |
ATC code | C10AX16 |
DrugBank | DB16228 (Inclisiran) |
KEGG | D11733 (Inclisiran) |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous |
Leqvio is administered as a subcutaneous injection, typically given by a healthcare provider. The standard Leqvio dosing schedule involves an initial injection, a second dose at three months, and subsequent doses every six months thereafter. It's essential that patients adhere to this schedule to maintain optimal cholesterol levels. Before starting Leqvio, discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, as this medication is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include diet, exercise, and other medications.
Leqvio contains the active ingredient inclisiran, which belongs to the class of small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs).
Leqvio is not suitable for everyone. It should not be used by individuals with a history of allergic reactions to inclisiran or any of its components.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use Leqvio only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks, as its effects on fetal development or nursing infants are not well understood.
Patients with severe liver or kidney disease should discuss their condition with their healthcare provider, as Leqvio's safety and efficacy in these populations have not been fully established.
Leqvio may interact with other medications, potentially altering their effects or increasing the risk of side effects. It's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Leqvio. Particular attention should be paid to blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering medications, and any drugs metabolized by the liver, as these may require dose adjustments or special monitoring.
While Leqvio is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects. Common ones include:
How does Leqvio work?
Leqvio works by using a piece of genetic material called small interfering RNA (siRNA) to specifically target and silence the PCSK9 gene, reducing the liver's production of PCSK9 protein. This decrease in PCSK9 protein allows the liver to remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood, lowering overall cholesterol levels.
How is Leqvio administered?
Leqvio is given as a subcutaneous injection by a healthcare provider according to a fixed schedule: an initial dose, a second dose at three months, and then once every six months.
Can I take Leqvio with other cholesterol-lowering medications?
Yes, Leqvio can be used in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medications, including statins. However, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you're taking to ensure safety and efficacy.
Are there any dietary restrictions while on Leqvio?
While Leqvio can significantly lower cholesterol levels, following a heart-healthy diet can enhance its effects. Your healthcare provider may recommend dietary adjustments to support your treatment plan.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a scheduled dose of Leqvio, contact your healthcare provider to reschedule as soon as possible to maintain effective cholesterol levels.
Is Leqvio safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
The safety of Leqvio for pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been established. Use during pregnancy or lactation should be discussed with a healthcare provider, weighing potential benefits against risks.
How quickly does Leqvio work?
Significant reductions in LDL cholesterol can be observed within weeks after the first injection, with maximum effects typically seen after the second dose.
Does Leqvio cure high cholesterol?
Leqvio does not cure high cholesterol but is an effective treatment to manage and lower LDL cholesterol levels as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Can I stop taking my statin if I start Leqvio?
Do not stop taking any prescribed medication, including statins, without discussing it with your healthcare provider. Leqvio may be used in addition to statins for further cholesterol reduction.
What are the long-term effects of taking Leqvio?
Studies on Leqvio have shown it to be effective at lowering cholesterol with a good safety profile. Ongoing research aims to understand its long-term effects, including its impact on cardiovascular health.