Educational guide
Chapter 6, Episode 6: CGRP Monoclonal Antibodies for ...
This content has been medically reviewed by Alicia Duyvejonck, DNP, AGNP, NP-C, AQH CGRP monoclonal antibodies, sometimes referred to as CGRP blockers or CGRP antagonists, are a class of preventive medications designed specifically to treat episodic or chronic
This guide cannot diagnose a condition or recommend a personal treatment plan. Discuss medical questions with a qualified professional.
This content has been medically reviewed by Alicia Duyvejonck, DNP, AGNP, NP-C, AQH
CGRP monoclonal antibodies, sometimes referred to as CGRP blockers or CGRP antagonists, are a class of preventive medications designed specifically to treat episodic or chronic migraine. They are large molecules that target a protein, called calcitonin gene-related peptide, or CGRP.¹
CGRP plays a big role in migraine attacks because it transmits pain signals, causes inflammation, and dilates blood vessels. CGRP monoclonal antibodies target either the CGRP receptor or the CGRP protein itself to reduce inflammation and pain.
There are four FDA-approved CGRP monoclonal antibodies: erenumab, fremanezumab and galcanezumab, which are administered by monthly or quarterly injection, and eptinezumab, which is administered intravenously every 3 months.
These CGRP blockers are usually considered successful if they reduce migraine or headache days by 50%, decrease the duration, severity, or disability of attacks, or improve the response to acute treatments.
CGRP Monoclonal Antibodies are not the only migraine treatment to target CGRP. Gepants also prevent CGRP from binding to its receptor and can be used as an acute and/or preventive treatment. Gepants are available in an oral or nasal spray form.
In clinical trials, CGRP monoclonal antibodies were generally well tolerated. However, some people may experience injection site reactions and depending on the medication, other side effects may occur such as constipation or high blood pressure.
CGRP monoclonal antibodies do not have any known drug interactions and can be used with other treatments such as neuromodulation devices, non-migraine specific medications, onabotulinumtoxinA, behavioral therapies and more.
Talk to your health care provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. Due to the unknown effects of these medications, CGRP monoclonal antibodies are typically discontinued six months prior to conception.
For more information, visit migrainedisorders.org
Reference
*The contents of this video are intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. AMD does not recommend or endorse any treatment, products, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information provided by this content is solely at your own risk.