Generic name:
Galcanezumab - subcutaneous injection
Pronunciation
(GAL-ka-NEZ-ue-mab)
Brand name(s)
Emgality
Generic name:
Galcanezumab - subcutaneous injection
Pronunciation
(GAL-ka-NEZ-ue-mab)
Brand name(s)
Emgality
This medication is used to help prevent migraine. It is also used to treat a certain type of headache (episodic cluster headache). Galcanezumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. This medication may work by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain. Using this medication can help improve your ability to concentrate and do your usual tasks.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using galcanezumab and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once a month. The injection is given in the thigh, abdomen, buttocks, or upper arm. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Take the medication out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not warm up this medication any other way (for example, do not heat it in the microwave, place it in hot water, leave it in direct sunlight). Do not shake the medication. Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is tender, bruised, red, or hard, or into scars or stretch marks. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
For the prevention of migraine, use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. For the treatment of cluster headache, use this medication regularly during the cluster period. To help you remember, mark the days on the calendar when you need to receive the medication.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.
Redness, pain, itching, or swelling at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before using galcanezumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
If you miss a scheduled monthly dose, use it as soon as you remember. Do not double the dose to catch up. Then use your next dose one month later. Continue to use each dose one month apart. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your schedule.
Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep the medication in the original packaging to protect from light. This medication may also be stored at room temperature if needed. If the medication is stored at room temperature, do not put it back in the refrigerator and discard after 7 days. Do not leave the syringe/autoinjector in direct sunlight. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Information last revised August 2024.
Copyright(c) 2024 First Databank, Inc.
Selected from NATIONAL DRUG DATA FILE (NDDF) data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc., 2019. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider.
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your health care professional. You should consult your health care professional before taking any drug, changing your diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.