Best FDA Approved Migraine Treatments
Of all the aches and pains that a human being can feel, many people would tell you that a migraine headache is one of the most unbearable. At the peak of a migraine attack, an individual cannot think, function or focus properly due to the excruciating, throbbing pain.
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Migraine episodes are a common and debilitating neurological condition that afflicts millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a severe headache, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound and visual disturbances, also known as auras. Many things can cause migraines, such as poor vision, chronic stress, allergic reaction/intolerance to certain foods or substances in the environment, sleep deprivation, withdrawal from nicotine or caffeine, hormone imbalance, women’s natural menstrual cycle and more.
The good news is, in recent years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several medications for both the treatment and prevention of migraines. You don’t have to suffer the torture of migraine pain anymore. The following medications offer many hours of relief to migraine sufferers and help improve their quality of life.
Qulipta (Atogepant) - A Breakthrough in Migraine Prevention
Qulipta is a prescription medicine specifically approved by the FDA for the preventive treatment of migraines in adults. This medication is unique from other migraine treatments, as it is the first and only oral calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist approved for both episodic and chronic migraines. This medication works by blocking the CGRP receptor, which is believed to play a crucial role in migraine attacks. By inhibiting CGRP, Qulipta helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Benefits of Qulipta Treatment
This drug has shown to have significant benefits in clinical trials. The FDA approval was based on the Phase 3 PROGRESS trial, which demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in mean monthly migraine days. Patients treated with Qulipta experienced fewer migraine episodes and saw improvements in their overall function and activity impairment.
Furthermore, Qulipta is available in different strengths, making it suitable for both episodic and chronic migraines. This flexibility allows healthcare providers to tailor the treatment based on individual patient needs.
Who is Qulipta Most Suited for?
Qulipta is primarily indicated for adults seeking preventive treatment for migraines. It is an ideal option for individuals who experience frequent migraine attacks, regardless of whether they have episodic or chronic migraines.
Episodic migraines refer to those experiencing migraines on fewer than 15 days per month, while chronic migraines involve headaches for 15 or more days per month, with at least eight of those days being associated with migraines. Qulipta provides relief for both types, allowing patients to regain control over their lives.
Alternative FDA Approved Migraine Treatments
Aside from Qulipta, the FDA has also approved several other medications for the treatment and prevention of migraines. These medications include:
1. Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA): Originally known for its cosmetic applications, Botox has been approved by the FDA for the preventive treatment of chronic migraines. It works by blocking the release of certain chemicals involved in pain transmission. Botox injections target specific muscles in the head and neck, reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. This treatment is most suitable for individuals with chronic migraines.
2. Aimovig (erenumab): This is a CGRP receptor antagonist administered through monthly injections. It is indicated for the preventive treatment of migraines in adults and has shown significant efficacy in reducing the number of monthly migraine days. Aimovig is suitable for individuals with episodic or chronic migraines.
3. Emgality (galcanezumab): Emgality is another CGRP receptor antagonist approved by the FDA for the preventive treatment of migraines in adults. Similar to Aimovig, it is administered through monthly injections. Clinical trials have shown that Emgality can significantly reduce the number of monthly migraine days, making it an effective option for individuals with episodic or chronic migraines.
4. Ajovy (fremanezumab): This medicine is a monoclonal antibody that targets CGRP and is administered through monthly or quarterly injections. It is approved for the preventive treatment of migraines in adults with both episodic and chronic migraines. Ajovy has demonstrated efficacy in reducing the frequency of migraine attacks, providing quick relief to patients.
Suitability
Botox injections are best suited for individuals with chronic migraines, especially if they have not responded well to other preventive medications.
Regarding Aimovig, Emgality, and Ajovy, these are most suitable for both episodic and chronic migraines, making them good options for a wider range of patients. These medications are particularly beneficial for individuals who have not achieved sufficient relief from other treatments or are intolerant to other preventive medications.
Final Thoughts
The choice of medication depends on the individual’s specific needs, including the frequency and type of migraines experienced. Neurologists and other healthcare providers can determine the most suitable treatment option for each patient, ensuring optimal results and happier days.
Other very helpful and beneficial ways that can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks: Keep a journal and record how you feel after you eat certain foods, improve your quality of sleep and your diet, and aim to lower your stress levels by practicing yoga and deep breathing exercises every day.
Lastly, it’s important to note that some serious conditions can cause migraine episodes as well, such as cancerous brain tumors, inflammation or bleeding in a part of the brain. So if you’ve been experiencing chronic migraines lately, it’s highly recommended to get a brain scan to be on the safe side. The sooner you catch the underlying culprit, the easier it will be to treat.
