Name of the Procedure:

Injection, fremanezumab-vfrm, 1 mg

Summary

Fremanezumab-vfrm, marketed under the trade name Ajovy, is a medication used to prevent migraine attacks. The drug is administered via injection and must be done under the direct supervision of a physician, particularly for Medicare patients. This medication is not for self-administration.

Purpose

Fremanezumab-vfrm is prescribed to prevent migraine episodes in individuals who suffer from frequent, debilitating migraine attacks. The goal is to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines, thereby improving the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Chronic migraines (15 or more headache days per month)

• Episodic migraines (fewer than 15 headache days per month)

  The procedure is appropriate for patients who have not adequately responded to other migraine prevention treatments.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or dietary restrictions.
• Patients should inform their physician of any other medications they are taking.

• Review of patient’s medical history and current health status.

  Procedure Description

  1. The patient will be seated or lying down.
  2. The injection site (common choices are the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen) will be cleaned and sterilized.
  3. The physician will administer the drug using a pre-filled syringe.
  4. The entire process is relatively quick, typically involving a single injection.

Duration

The injection procedure usually takes only a few minutes.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or physician's office.

Personnel

The injection will be administered by a trained healthcare professional, such as a physician or nurse.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: injection site reactions (redness, pain, swelling).
• Rare risks: allergic reactions, such as rash or trouble breathing.
• Complications can usually be managed with appropriate medical intervention.

Benefits

• Significant reduction in the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
• Some patients may begin to see improvement within a few days to weeks after the first injection.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time is required.
• Patients can generally resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled to monitor the effectiveness and any side effects.

Alternatives

• Other preventive medications such as beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants.
• Non-pharmacological treatments like lifestyle changes, stress management, and physical therapy.
• Compared to fremanezumab-vfrm, alternative treatments may have a varying success rate and different side effect profiles.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: minimal discomfort similar to getting a flu shot.
• After the procedure: possible mild soreness at the injection site which usually resolves quickly.
• Pain management: over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if necessary.

This comprehensive outline provides an overview of the injection of fremanezumab-vfrm, helping patients understand what to expect and how to prepare for the procedure.