What is Aimovig, and how does it work for migraines?
Aimovig is a prescription medication used to prevent migraines in adults. It is an injectable form of erenumab-aooe, a human monoclonal antibody that targets the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (CGRP-R) [1].
What triggers the release of CGRP, and how does Aimovig respond?
CGRP is a peptide that is released during a migraine attack and causes blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased inflammation and pain. Aimovig works by blocking the CGRP receptors on the nerve cells responsible for transmitting pain signals [2]. By preventing CGRP from binding to these receptors, Aimovig reduces the frequency of migraine attacks.
Clinical trial results and efficacy
Clinical trials have shown that Aimovig significantly reduces the frequency of migraine attacks in patients who have not responded to other treatments. In a phase 3 trial, patients treated with Aimovig experienced a 50% reduction in migraine days compared to a 30% reduction in the placebo group [3].
Who is eligible for Aimovig treatment?
Aimovig is approved for the preventive treatment of episodic migraines with fewer than 15 headache days per month. Patients should have a history of migraines, but the medication does not work for acute migraine treatment [4].
Side effects and potential risks
As with any medication, Aimovig can cause side effects, such as injection site reactions, nasopharyngitis, and upper respiratory tract infections. Rare but serious side effects include allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, and increased blood pressure [5].
Price and availability
Aimovig is a prescription medication, and its cost may vary depending on insurance coverage and location. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the initial launch price for Aimovig was around $6,900 per year, but prices may have changed since then [6].
References:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/medlineplus-drugs/erenumab-aooe
[2] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Migraine. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Education/Migraine
[3] Teofili, N., et al. (2020). Efficacy and safety of erenumab in adults with episodic migraines: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Headache, 60(3), 447-461.
[4] Amgen, Inc. (2018). Aimovig (Erenumab-aooe) Injection for Subcutaneous Use. Prescribing Information.
[5] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-and-resources/patient-faqs/aimovig
[6] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Erenumab (Aimovig). Drugs in Development for Migraine Prevention.
Sources:
1. Amgen, Inc. Prescribing Information for Aimovig (Erenumab-aooe) Injection for Subcutaneous Use.
2. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Migraine.
3. Teofili, N., et al. (2020). Efficacy and safety of erenumab in adults with episodic migraines: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Headache, 60(3), 447-461.
4. Food and Drug Administration. (2020). Aimovig (Erenumab-aooe)
5. DrugPatentWatch.com. 2020. Erenumab (Aimovig). Drugs in Development for Migraine Prevention.