Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am 33 and have been getting migraines six to eight times a month. I have used Naproxen and Sumatriptan for years, but now my neurologist suggested a preventive injection like Erenumab or Fremanezumab.
I am a bit nervous about side effects or hormonal impact, especially since I am planning a pregnancy in a year or two.
How do you usually decide who is suitable for these monthly migraine shots, and are they safe to use short-term until things settle down?
My last MRI was normal, but my vitamin B12 was borderline at 213.
Please help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
So you are dealing with a significant migraine burden, and it is good that your neurologist is exploring preventive options.
When someone has migraines more than four times a month, especially when attacks interfere with daily life or do not respond well to acute medications like Naproxen and Sumatriptan, which are preventive treatment becomes an important consideration.
Erenumab and Fremanezumab are part of a newer class of migraine preventives called CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) monoclonal antibodies.
They work by targeting a protein involved in migraine attacks and are given once a month (or quarterly, depending on the formulation). These medications are generally well-tolerated.
The most commonly reported side effects are mild, like constipation, injection site reactions, or fatigue.
The drugs do not appear to significantly affect hormones or fertility, but because there is limited data on their use during pregnancy, most doctors recommend stopping them a few months before trying to conceive, so using them short-term now could be a reasonable strategy while you plan.
Your borderline vitamin B12 level does not directly cause migraines, but it is still important to correct it, especially if you are planning a pregnancy. Low vitamin B12 can lead to fatigue, nerve issues, and even mood changes.
Boosting your levels with oral supplements or injections might provide some added benefits, especially when used in conjunction with other migraine treatments.
Overall, these preventive injections are considered a good option for people like you who have tried standard treatments but still experience frequent, disruptive migraines.
If you are feeling unsure, you could try it for a few months to see how your body responds, while keeping in close touch as you plan for pregnancy.
I hope this helps. Always feel free to reach out to me anytime. I am always here to help.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Ashraf Ghani
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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