Severe headaches that feel like they're going to split open, pain on only one side of the head, blurred vision, and irritability at the slightest sound... These are all very familiar experiences for someone with migraines. This unbearable pain can cause them to miss all of their daily activities and even have to stay in bed all day. So, today we're going to talk about a new drug that can help control these types of severe migraines.
What kind of medicine is Galcanezumab (Emgality)?
Simply put, Galcanezumab is a drug that is used to prevent migraines. It is marketed under the name Emgality . In addition to migraines, it is also used to treat another severe type of headache called cluster headaches.
Now you're probably wondering how this works. There's a specific chemical in our body that causes migraines. What this medicine does is block that chemical and stop the pain from happening. It's a medicine made from a specific type of protein. In medicine, we call these kinds of medicines monoclonal antibodies .
Things to tell your doctor before taking medication
Before deciding to give you this medicine, your doctor will ask you about your health. At that time, if you have any of the following, you should definitely tell them without hiding it.
- Questions related to blood circulation in the fingers and toes: For example, do you have a condition like Raynaud's syndrome?
- High Blood Pressure: Do you have high blood pressure?
- Allergies: Have you ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine, Galcanezumab, or any other medicine, food, or dye?
- Pregnancy: Are you currently pregnant? Or are you hoping to become pregnant soon?
- Being a breastfeeding mother: Are you a breastfeeding mother?
This information will help the doctor a lot to treat you more safely.
How do you use this medicine?
This is an injection that is given under the skin. Your doctor or nurse will usually show you how to give yourself this at home.
- Follow the instructions exactly: It is very important to take the exact dose, on the exact day, exactly as your doctor tells you. Do not stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to.
- Safe disposal of needles and syringes: This is very important . Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be disposed of in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
- If given to children: If this medicine is given to children, special care may be required. So talk to your doctor about it.
What to do if the dose suddenly increases?
Imagine that you have accidentally taken more medicine than the prescribed dose. If this happens, do not panic and immediately go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason, even if you have the same symptoms as me.
What if I miss a day to take the medicine?
If you forget to take your medicine on the day you are supposed to take it, 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 on the scheduled day. Never take two doses at once. If you are in any doubt about this, it is best to ask your doctor for advice.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. But not everyone gets them. It's important to be aware of this. Let's break these side effects down into two categories.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions or angioedema | If you experience sudden symptoms such as skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, hands or feet, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, go to a hospital immediately. |
| Increased blood pressure | If you suddenly experience severe headaches, dizziness, or changes in vision, it could be a sign of high blood pressure. Tell your doctor. |
| Raynaud syndrome | If your fingers and toes become cold, numb, or painful, and the color of your fingers changes to white, blue, or red, inform your doctor. |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but should be reported to your doctor if they persist | |
| Pain at the injection site | There may be redness, slight pain, or swelling at the injection site. This usually subsides within a day or two. If it persists, tell your doctor. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
How should I store the medicine?
It is very important to store this medicine properly.
- Keep away from children and pets.
- This medicine can be stored in the fridge or at room temperature.
If it is in the refrigerator (the most suitable method)
- Store in the normal part of the refrigerator (between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius). Never store in the freezer. Do not use the medicine if it freezes.
- Take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before using.
- If not used after removing it, it can be kept at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius) for up to 7 days. However, it is not recommended to put it back in the refrigerator.
If it is at room temperature
- If you don't have a refrigerator, you can keep this medicine at room temperature for up to 7 days.
- Keep in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
- Any remaining medication should be discarded after 7 days or after the expiration date.
Ask your doctor for advice on how to dispose of expired or no longer needed medications. Never flush these down the toilet or sink.
Take-Home Message
- Galcanezumab (Emgality) is a vaccine used to prevent migraines and cluster headaches.
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- Learn exactly how to inject the vaccine and how to safely dispose of used needles.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as facial swelling and difficulty breathing, go to a hospital immediately.
- Store the medicine properly, at the correct temperature. Do not store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- This medicine is for you only. Never give it to anyone else.
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