Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) is not currently approved for use in Canada [1]. As a result, there is no listed cost for Ubrelvy in Canada, nor are there official prices available through Canadian pharmacies or healthcare programs [1].
When might Ubrelvy be available in Canada?
The availability of Ubrelvy in Canada depends on Health Canada's approval process. Manufacturers must submit a New Drug Submission (NDS) to Health Canada, which then reviews the drug's safety, efficacy, and quality before deciding whether to approve it for sale in the country [1]. Information on the current status of Ubrelvy's regulatory review in Canada is not publicly available.
What is Ubrelvy used for?
Ubrelvy is an oral medication used for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults [2]. It is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist [2].
How does Ubrelvy work?
Ubrelvy works by blocking the activity of CGRP, a molecule that is believed to play a role in migraine [2]. By inhibiting CGRP, the medication helps to reduce the pain and other symptoms associated with a migraine attack.
What are the alternatives to Ubrelvy for migraine treatment in Canada?
For individuals in Canada seeking migraine treatment, several options are available. These include:
* Triptans: Medications like sumatriptan, rizatriptan, and zolmitriptan are commonly prescribed for acute migraine attacks [3].
* Gepants: While Ubrelvy is not yet available, other gepants like nurxac (rimegepant) are approved in Canada for the acute treatment of migraine [4].
* Ditans: Lasmiditan is another class of medication approved for acute migraine [4].
* Ergots: Ergotamine tartrate and dihydroergotamine mesylate are older but still used options for some patients [3].
* Preventive medications: For individuals experiencing frequent migraines, preventive treatments such as beta-blockers, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and CGRP monoclonal antibodies are available [3].
What are the typical costs of migraine medications in Canada?
The cost of migraine medications in Canada varies significantly based on the specific drug, dosage, whether it is generic or brand-name, and whether it is covered by a provincial drug plan, private insurance, or paid for out-of-pocket [3][4]. For instance, brand-name triptans can range from CAD $10 to $50 per prescription, while newer CGRP antagonists can be considerably more expensive, often in the range of several hundred dollars per month [4].
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**Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com
[2] Ubrelvy Prescribing Information. AbbVie Inc.
[3] Canadian Migraine Treatment Options. (Accessed October 26, 2023).
[4] Health Canada Drug Database. (Accessed October 26, 2023).