Are injectable treatments effective for my migraines?

Hello,

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I understand your concern.

It appears that the doctor is referring to calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibody injections, such as Erenumab, Fremanezumab, Galcanezumab, and Eptinezumab. These are newer, targeted therapies used for migraine prevention.

These medicines help prevent migraines by blocking calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which is a chemical messenger involved in the development of migraine attacks. They are not used as rescue treatments.

Acute migraine medications, such as triptans, are still required to treat headaches once an attack has started. Most of these injections are administered once a month as a subcutaneous injection, which means the medicine is injected under the skin. Fremanezumab can also be given once every three months at a higher dose. Eptinezumab is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion once every three months.

Many patients experience a reduction of 50 percent or more in the number of migraine days per month after one to three months of treatment. These medications tend to be most effective in individuals with frequent migraines who do not respond well to oral preventive medications.

These injections are generally well tolerated. Common side effects include mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Less common side effects include constipation, particularly with erenumab, mild allergic reactions, and fatigue.

Current evidence does not show significant long-term serious side effects. Available studies, including data up to five years, are reassuring.

These treatments are often recommended for individuals who experience four or more migraine days per month and have tried at least two other preventive treatments without sufficient benefit. They are usually avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data.

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Thank you.