What are the common side effects of Ajovy?
Ajovy, a brand name for fremanezumab, is a biologic medication used to treat migraines. While it has shown promise in reducing migraine frequency and severity, like any medication, it can cause side effects, some of which are more common than others.
Headache and Migraine Changes
The most noticeable side effects of Ajovy are related to headaches and migraines. Some people experience an increase in headache frequency or severity during the initial treatment period, but this often subsides over time [1]. In some cases, patients may experience migraines with aura, despite their treatment.
Muscle and Joint Pain
Muscle and joint pain, including tendinitis and arthralgia, are among the most common side effects of Ajovy. In some cases, these pains can be severe and may require additional treatment.
Injection Site Reactions
As an injectable medication, Ajovy can cause injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling, and warmth at the injection site [2].
Infection-Related Side Effects
In rare cases, Ajovy can cause infections, including pneumonia, bronchitis, cellulitis, and sinusitis [3].
Lab Abnormalities
Ajovy can cause changes in lab values, including elevations in liver enzymes, low lymphocyte count, and decreased white blood cell count.
Other Side Effects
Other side effects of Ajovy include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and allergic reactions.
Rare but Serious Side Effects
Rarely, Ajovy can cause serious side effects, including anaphylaxis, angioedema, and hypersensitivity reactions.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience any of the following, seek medical attention:
- Severe side effects
- Allergic reactions
- Infections
- Blood in urine or stool
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe headache or confusion
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com, Fremanezumab (Ajovy) - Side Effects and Warnings
[2] Ajovy (fremanezumab-vfrm) - EMA Prescribing Information (pdf)
[3] Ajovy (fremanezumab-vfrm) - FDA Prescribing Information (pdf)
Note: This is not a comprehensive list of side effects, and patients should consult their healthcare provider for a detailed understanding of potential side effects and any questions or concerns.