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Is Emgality safe for VMD type 2M patients?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I was recently prescribed Emgality. Is it safe to take with Von Willebrand disease type 2M?

Please guide.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concerns.

Emgality (Galcanezumab) is a prescription medicine used to prevent migraines and treat episodic cluster headaches in adults. It is a monoclonal antibody that blocks CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide), a protein involved in migraine attacks. It is given as a monthly injection under the skin. Common side effects include injection site reactions and constipation.

Generally, it is safe, but caution is needed in severe von Willebrand disease due to the risk of bleeding at the injection site. As per available studies, Emgality shows no significant problems. However, if there is even minor bleeding, please contact your hematologist to rule out any interaction.

Von Willebrand Disease is a genetic bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor (VWF), a protein that helps blood clot. It can lead to frequent nosebleeds, easy bruising, heavy menstrual bleeding, and prolonged bleeding after injury or surgery. There are three main types, with type 1 being the mildest and type 3 the most severe.

I hope I am clear.

Please feel free to ask if you have any further queries about this issue.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Should I wait to start the Emgality that my neurologist prescribed until I see my new hematologist, or is it safe to take it without their supervision?

My most recent laboratory tests showed the following:

  1. Von Willebrand factor antigen: 40% (normal: 44 to 1144%).

  2. VWF activity (ristocetin cofactor): 16% (normal: 50 to 150%).

  3. Factor VIII assay: 48.6% (normal: 58.0 to 132.0%).

Would it be safer to delay starting Emgality until a hematologist evaluates these values?

Please guide.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

This is very mild VWD; you can continue your Emgality.

Please feel free to ask if you have any further queries about this issue.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At October 14, 2025
Reviewed AtOctober 15, 2025

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