A simple guide to getting rid of migraine headaches: Fremanezumab vaccine

Are your daily routines disrupted by migraine headaches? For some people, this pain is unbearable. It can be so severe that you can't go to work, do household chores, or even read a book. So today we're going to talk about a new type of medication that can help control and prevent migraines. That's a vaccine called Fremanezumab.

What kind of medicine is this? What is Fremanezumab?

Simply put, Fremanezumab is a vaccine that is given to prevent migraine headaches . The important thing to understand here is that this is not a medication that is given to reduce the headache after it has occurred. It is used to stop migraine headaches from occurring more frequently, in other words, as a preventive treatment .

This belongs to a class of drugs called ``monoclonal antibody''. Don't be alarmed by the name. What it means is that this is a protein specially made in a laboratory that works like our own antibodies. There are certain chemicals in our bodies that can cause migraine headaches. What this vaccine does is block the action of one of those chemicals. Then the likelihood of migraine headaches is reduced.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before your doctor prescribes this medicine for you, he or she will need to know your complete medical history. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.

• Problems with blood flow to your fingers and toes: Do your fingers and toes suddenly turn pale, blue, and feel numb? Is it sometimes painful? This is also called ``Raynaud's syndrome.'' Tell your doctor if you have this condition.
• High Blood Pressure: If you have high blood pressure or are taking medication for it.
• Allergies: If you have had a previous allergy, that is, an allergy to the Fremanezumab vaccine, any other medicine, food, dyes, or preservatives, you must tell us about it.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, tell your doctor before starting this medication.

How do you use this medicine?

Fremanezumab is a subcutaneous injection . It is usually given into your stomach, thigh, or upper arm.

Your doctor or nurse will often give you clear instructions on how to give yourself this vaccine at home. It is very important to follow those instructions exactly. Ask them until you understand exactly how to prepare the medicine and how to give the vaccine.

Disposing of needles and syringes

This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Doing so can be dangerous to others. They should be placed in a special, thick plastic container that is designed to be removed. If you don't have one, ask your doctor or clinic for one.

Can this medicine be given to children?

Special care should be taken when giving this medicine to children. Therefore, if you are giving this medicine to a child, talk to your doctor about it for more information.

Common questions and answers about medicine

What to do if you take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose of this medicine, go to a hospital Emergency Unit (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What if I miss a dose of medication?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time. If you are unsure, ask your doctor.

Can there be interactions with other medications?

Fremanezumab is known to have few major interactions with other medications. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including vitamins, herbal remedies, supplements, and whether you smoke or drink alcohol.

Possible side effects of this medicine

Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. However, not everyone gets them. The table below will give you a clear picture of these.

How to store the medicine?

It is very important to store this medicine properly. Remember to keep it out of the reach of children and pets .

If you have it in the refrigerator (this is the best method)

• Keep the medicine in the fridge. Never put it in the freezer.
• Keep the vaccine in its original container until it is time to get it.
• Take the vaccine out of the box about 30 minutes before giving it and let it come to room temperature.
• Once you take it out of the refrigerator, don't put it back in the refrigerator.

If it is at room temperature

• In some cases, this medicine can be kept at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius).
• But you can only keep it for a maximum of 7 days . It should also be kept in the same box it came in, away from light.
• If it has not been used after 7 days at room temperature, it should be discarded.

How do I dispose of expired or unwanted medication?

Do not throw expired or unwanted medications in the trash. They can be harmful to the environment. Ask your doctor for advice on how to safely dispose of these medications.