Dr. Ahmed REPATHA® is the generic name of a novel and highly potent lipid-lowering drug, Evolocumab. It is an injectable medicine that is used to lower plasma lipid levels by inhibiting the protein PCSK-9.
Evolocumab has been approved by the FDA for the prevention of cardiovascular events in adults with established cardiovascular disease.
It has also been approved to reduce LDL-C levels in adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including heterozygous and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, when used in combination with diet and other lipid-lowering therapies.
For patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, REPATHA can be used along with diet, statins, ezetimibe, and LDL apheresis to further lower LDL-C levels.
Repatha side effects:
Side effects of Repatha are summarized here based on severity and system-wise. Here is a table summarizing Repatha’s side effects:
System | Common Side Effects | Less Common Side Effects |
| Nervous System |
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| Gastrointestinal System |
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| Musculoskeletal System |
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| Respiratory System |
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| Skin |
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| Other |
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Repatha is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to it. Here is a table summarizing the side effects of Repatha based on the severity of symptoms:
Severity | Side Effects |
| Mild |
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| Moderate |
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| Severe |
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Repatha side effects: Weight gain or Weight loss?
The manufacturer’s labeling and the FDA prescribing information have not mentioned weight gain or weight loss as a side effect of Repatha [Ref].
The pharmacokinetic characteristics of Repatha suggest that with increasing weight, exposure to the drug is reduced.
In a phase 4 clinical trial, more than 100,000 people reported using Repatha. The data can be misleading and inaccurate. However, based on what people reported, the effect of Repatha on body weight is summarized in the table below:
Effect of Repatha on body weight | Total number (112,588) | Percentage |
| Weight gain | 1071 | 0.95% |
| Weight Loss | 51 | 0.05% |
Compared to patients who lost weight, weight gain occurred in a significantly higher percentage of patients.
There seems a tendency for weight gain rather than weight loss. However, the effect of Repatha on body weight has not been studied in clinical trials.
Weight can add to the anxiety and cardiovascular issues associated with obesity. It is therefore recommended to restrict to a low-calorie diet and regular aerobic exercise.
Can you answer a few questions below to report any weight changes associated with Repatha (Evolocumab)?
- Question of
Have you experienced any changes in your weight since starting Repatha?
Yes- No
- Question of
Did you notice weight changes within the first few weeks of starting Repatha?
- Yes
- No
- Question of
Have you made any changes to your diet or exercise routine since starting Repatha?
- Yes
- No
- Question of
Do you feel that Repatha has had a significant impact on your weight?
- Yes
- No
- Question of
Have you noticed any changes in your appetite or hunger levels since starting Repatha?
- Yes
- No
- Question of
Have you “Gained Weight” or “Lost Weight” using Repatha?
- Gained
- Lost
