My Experience with Evenity

Posted by ella5321 @ella5321, Jan 16, 2024

I just finished my 12th set of Evenity injections today. I wanted to share my experience with other people who are considering starting Evenity or are already receiving the injections.

Cost and Ordering
My Medicare Advantage Plan covered most of the cost of the medication, and it was authorized very quickly. My out of pocket cost for all the medication was about $2800. My copayments varied depending on which coverage stage I was in. I used my insurance company’s online pharmacy, and the syringes were shipped to my doctor’s office. I never had to pay for the administration of the medication, which was always done by a medical assistant. I saw my doctor several times during the 12 months. The last visit was to go over what happens next.

Side Effects
I experienced some of the side effects listed on Amgen’s website, although not all at the same time. I reported the side effects to my doctor and to Amgen. The side effects included injection site pain, bone pain, joint pain, muscle pain, eczema-like rashes, and fever. I never considered stopping the treatment due to the side effects. The majority of the side effects that I experienced didn’t last very long after each set of injections- sometimes just a day or two. The eczema-like rashes lasted a couple of months.

After Evenity
The next steps are a bone density scan and Prolia injections which are once every 6 months. I’m not sure how long I will be on Prolia.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.

Profile picture for patwerthman @patwerthman

Yikes. That’s not good. What’s up with the swelling?

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@patwerthman
I’ll find out tomorrow when I see the doctor. Like I said, the knee pain went away completely. My finger is now clicking and I can hardly bend it. All very strange since Reclast.

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I am curious how your post-evenity experience with Prolia went. I have 4 more Evenity shots and weighing Prolia versus Reclast options.

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Profile picture for deborahla @deborahla

I am taking Evenity (8 injections in) but have had no side effects (so far). I think it is just not possible to know if your headaches will continue or not. I know the uncertainly is very frustrating but any meds can cause side effects (at any time even if you've been taking them a long time without them). I would try taking Tylenol or something before or with the injection to see if that would help. I assume you reported the headaches to your provider. I would keep the provider informed also and see if they have suggestions.

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@deborahla I have discussed the headaches, they are ‘common’ and should subside. They have, thankfully. I just had # 4 done yesterday. I have gained 15 lbs since my 1st injection! Anybody else have weight gain side effects? I think I saw someone earlier that said she did, but can’t find her.

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I just finished number 7 of Evenity. I have had a few side effects but nothing that has ever made me think of stopping.
What I am concerned with is what's next. I was set on doing Reclast and my doctor is wanting Prolia. Thoughts?

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I am glad your headaches stopped. I think I too read someone's post who stated she had weight gain with Evenity. Hopefully others will weigh in on this. Thank you, Deborah L

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Profile picture for clowny @clowny

Thanks for your post.
I am 5 months in. I will have a DEXA after 7 infusions.
If results are good, I will have annual Reclast infusion for three years.

Should I consider Prolia instead?

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@clowny I am wondering why they are checking you after 7 injections rather than finishing the 12 month course. Thank you.

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Profile picture for grammy9 @grammy9

I just finished number 7 of Evenity. I have had a few side effects but nothing that has ever made me think of stopping.
What I am concerned with is what's next. I was set on doing Reclast and my doctor is wanting Prolia. Thoughts?

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@grammy9: I’m in the same situation. Both Reclast & Prolia both report dramatic side effects; however, I have not been aware of any alternative treatments to seal in bone increase after Evenity 12 mo treatment.
I am most concerned and hope you will reach out if you get additional information. I will have my #6 injections on Nov. 1.
Good luck to us all! dbamos1945

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Profile picture for dbamos1945 @dbamos1945

@grammy9: I’m in the same situation. Both Reclast & Prolia both report dramatic side effects; however, I have not been aware of any alternative treatments to seal in bone increase after Evenity 12 mo treatment.
I am most concerned and hope you will reach out if you get additional information. I will have my #6 injections on Nov. 1.
Good luck to us all! dbamos1945

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@dbamos1945, Thank you....I will try and reach out when I decide what I am doing. It's so stressful. Please let me know if you decide.

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Profile picture for aspirecreative @aspirecreative

@clowny I am wondering why they are checking you after 7 injections rather than finishing the 12 month course. Thank you.

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@aspirecreative
I am requesting an early review because of circumstances.
It is doubtful that Medicare will cover it.

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Profile picture for grammy9 @grammy9

I just finished number 7 of Evenity. I have had a few side effects but nothing that has ever made me think of stopping.
What I am concerned with is what's next. I was set on doing Reclast and my doctor is wanting Prolia. Thoughts?

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@grammy9 my endocrinologist also changed my drugs after Evenity to Prolia then on to Reclast. Depending on your DEXA score to gain more bone density with Prolia. Unfortunately for me after 1 year of Prolia and no real gains I went on Reclast.

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