Medication Overview
Evenity (romosozumab) is an injectable prescription medication used primarily to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk of fracture. It functions by inhibiting the activity of sclerostin, which has a role in bone resorption, thereby increasing bone formation and reducing bone loss.
Who Should Consider Evenity? Evenity is suitable for postmenopausal women who:
- Are at high risk for fracture, defined as a history of osteoporotic fracture, or multiple risk factors for fracture.
- Have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.
How is Evenity Administered? Evenity is administered through subcutaneous injection. It is typically given once a month by a healthcare provider. The standard course of treatment involves 12 monthly doses, which can significantly increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
Important Information for Evenity Users:
- How to Use: Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for receiving Evenity injections.
- Storage: Store Evenity in the refrigerator and do not freeze. Ensure it is brought to room temperature before administering to reduce discomfort.
- Side Effects: Common side effects include joint pain, headache, and injection site reactions. There are also concerns about cardiovascular risks. Report any severe or unusual symptoms, particularly cardiac symptoms, to your healthcare provider.
- Monitoring: Regular medical check-ups and bone density tests are recommended to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and monitor for side effects.
Medication Warnings
- Cardiovascular Risk: Evenity may increase the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death. It should not be used in patients who have had a myocardial infarction or stroke within the previous year.
- Hypocalcemia: Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake; Evenity may cause low calcium levels in the blood. Symptoms of hypocalcemia should be reported immediately.
- Allergic Reactions: Seek immediate medical help if you experience symptoms such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
- Osteonecrosis of the Jaw and Atypical Femoral Fractures: Inform your healthcare provider if you experience new or unusual pain in the groin, hip, or thigh as these may be early symptoms of a femoral fracture, or pain or swelling in the jaw as these could be signs of osteonecrosis.
Who Should and Shouldn’t Take Evenity?
- Suitable Candidates:
- Postmenopausal women at significant risk of fractures looking for a medication to rapidly increase bone density.
- Unsuitable Candidates:
- Patients with a history of myocardial infarction or stroke within the last year.
- Individuals with severe hypercalcemia or severe renal impairment.
- Those with known hypersensitivity to romosozumab or any of its components.
For more detailed information and personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider.
