Introduction: If you're someone who deals with the agony of migraines, there's good news on the horizon. Newer migraine therapies such as Ubrogepant (marketed as Ubrelvy), Rimegepant (sold as Nurtec), and CGRP MABs (Erenumab/Aimovig, Fremanezumab/Ajovy, and Galcanezumab/Emgality) are changing the game when it comes to migraine treatment. These treatments are specifically designed to target a molecule called CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) that plays a key role in causing migraines. Not only are they effective in providing relief, but they also have minimal side effects. In this blog post, we'll explain how Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy), Rimegepant (Nurtec), and CGRP MABs work and why they are such a promising option for migraine sufferers.
Understanding CGRP: CGRP, or calcitonin gene-related peptide, is a molecule in our bodies that contributes to migraines. When CGRP levels are high, it leads to widening of blood vessels and inflammation, causing the throbbing pain associated with migraines. Researchers have developed therapies that specifically target CGRP to prevent these effects.
Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy) and Rimegepant (Nurtec): Blocking CGRP Receptors: Ubrogepant, marketed as Ubrelvy, and Rimegepant, known as Nurtec, are medications that focus on blocking CGRP receptors. By doing this, they stop CGRP from attaching to these receptors and causing the pain and inflammation associated with migraines. Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy) and Rimegepant (Nurtec) are designed to work specifically on CGRP receptors, which makes them effective without causing many side effects.
CGRP MABs: Neutralizing CGRP: CGRP MABs, including Erenumab (Aimovig), Fremanezumab (Ajovy), and Galcanezumab (Emgality), are a different type of treatment that neutralizes CGRP itself instead of blocking its receptors. These treatments involve injecting special antibodies that bind to CGRP and prevent it from causing blood vessel widening and inflammation. CGRP MABs are usually given as injections every month or few months. They have been proven to be highly effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.
Effectiveness and Safety: Both Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy), Rimegepant (Nurtec), and CGRP MABs (Erenumab/Aimovig, Fremanezumab/Ajovy, and Galcanezumab/Emgality) have shown great promise in clinical trials and real-world use. Studies have demonstrated that these treatments can significantly reduce the number and intensity of migraines. They have even been effective for people who haven't found relief with other treatments.
The best part is that Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy), Rimegepant (Nurtec), and CGRP MABs (Erenumab/Aimovig, Fremanezumab/Ajovy, and Galcanezumab/Emgality) have a good safety profile. Since they target CGRP specifically, they have fewer side effects compared to other migraine medications. The most common side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as mild nausea, constipation, or minor reactions at the injection site for CGRP MABs.
Conclusion: Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy), Rimegepant (Nurtec), and CGRP MABs (Erenumab/Aimovig, Fremanezumab/Ajovy, and Galcanezumab/Emgality) are exciting new options for migraine sufferers. By focusing on the CGRP molecule, these treatments provide targeted relief from migraines with minimal side effects. Whether it's blocking CGRP receptors with Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy) or Rimegepant (Nurtec), or neutralizing CGRP itself with CGRP MABs (Erenumab/Aimovig, Fremanezumab/Ajovy, and Galcanezumab/Emgality), these therapies offer hope to individuals struggling with migraines, helping them improve their quality of life and find effective ways to manage their migraines.
Medication |
Generic Name |
Type |
Administration |
Preventive/Abortive |
Galcanezumab |
CGRP MAB |
Injection (at home) |
Preventive |
|
Fremanezumab |
CGRP MAB |
Injection (at home) |
Preventive |
|
Erenumab |
CGRP MAB |
Injection (at home) |
Preventive |
|
Rimegepant |
Gepant |
Oral |
Abortive |
|
Ubrogepant |
Gepant |
Oral |
Abortive |
|
Eptinezumab |
CGRP MAB |
Infusion (at a healthcare facility) |
Preventive |
|
Atogepant |
Gepant |
Oral |
Both |
Please consult with a healthcare professional for more information and guidance regarding the usage and suitability of these medications for your specific needs.