How do I use Aimovig (erenumab) injection at home?
Aimovig is a once-monthly injection for migraine prevention. Use it exactly as your clinician instructs. If you are unsure about technique, ask a pharmacist or nurse to watch your first injection.
What’s the correct dose and injection schedule?
Aimovig is given as a subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injection once every 4 weeks. Follow the dose your prescription specifies.
Where do I inject Aimovig?
Inject Aimovig under the skin of areas such as:
- the thigh
- the abdomen (except around the navel)
- the upper outer arm (if someone else is helping)
Rotate injection sites each month to reduce irritation.
What supplies do I need before starting?
Before injecting, gather:
- Aimovig prefilled autoinjector or prefilled syringe (use only the form you were prescribed)
- an alcohol swab
- a sharps disposal container for the used device
Wash your hands before you start.
Step-by-step: using the Aimovig autoinjector (pen)
- Take the autoinjector out of the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature before injecting (do not warm it with heat).
- Check the liquid: it should look clear to slightly yellow. Do not use if it is cloudy or has particles.
- Choose and clean an injection site with an alcohol swab.
- Place the autoinjector against the skin and follow the device prompts to deliver the dose.
- Remove the device and press gently on the site if needed.
- Dispose of the autoinjector in a sharps container right away.
Step-by-step: using the Aimovig prefilled syringe
- Let the syringe reach room temperature before injecting (do not heat it).
- Check the liquid for clarity and particles. Do not use if it looks wrong.
- Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab.
- Pinch the skin gently and insert the needle at the correct angle.
- Inject the medication slowly and steadily until the syringe is empty.
- Remove the needle and press gently on the site if needed.
- Dispose of the syringe in a sharps container right away.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. Then take the next dose based on your new date (so you stay on a once-every-4-weeks schedule). If you’re close to the next scheduled dose, contact your prescriber for guidance.
Can I take Aimovig with other migraine treatments?
Aimovig is used for migraine prevention and may be used alongside other therapies your clinician recommends. Tell your prescriber about all medicines you take, including other preventive and rescue migraine drugs.
What side effects are patients most concerned about?
Common concerns include:
- injection-site reactions (redness, pain, swelling, itching)
- constipation (reported with erenumab)
Seek urgent care if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face/throat, or widespread rash.
How do I store Aimovig before use?
Store Aimovig in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep it in its original carton to protect it from light. If your clinician/pharmacist gave specific instructions for travel or temporary room-temperature storage, follow those.
When should I contact my doctor right away?
Call your clinician if you get:
- severe or worsening constipation, abdominal pain, or inability to pass stool
- signs of allergy (hives, facial swelling, breathing problems)
- persistent injection-site reactions
Sources
I can tailor the instructions precisely if you tell me whether you use the Aimovig autoinjector pen or the prefilled syringe, and your prescribed dose (70 mg or 140 mg).