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Medications Approved for Preventing Migraine Headaches.
Brittany L Spindler1, Melody Ryan1
1University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, Lexington.
The American Journal of Medicine
|March 8, 2020
Summary
New monoclonal antibodies targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) offer a novel preventative treatment for migraine. These FDA-approved therapies effectively reduce migraine attacks, providing new options for patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Migraine is a highly prevalent neurological disorder, affecting millions globally and disproportionately impacting women.
- Existing treatments for migraine are insufficient for many patients, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the recent FDA approval of three new humanized monoclonal antibodies targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP).
- To summarize the mechanism of action and efficacy of these novel migraine preventative treatments.
Main Methods:
- Review of FDA-approved monoclonal antibodies: erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab.
- Analysis of their targeting mechanisms (CGRP receptor or ligand) and indication for migraine prevention.
Main Results:
- Erenumab targets the CGRP receptor, while fremanezumab and galcanezumab target the CGRP ligand.
- Clinical studies demonstrate that these CGRP monoclonal antibodies significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
Conclusions:
- The newly approved CGRP monoclonal antibodies represent a significant advancement in migraine prevention.
- These agents provide valuable new therapeutic options for adults with episodic or chronic migraine, particularly those who have not responded to other treatments.
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