Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2019 [1].
What is Nurtec ODT used for?
Nurtec ODT is prescribed to treat acute migraine with or without aura in adults [2]. It is also used for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults [2].
How does Nurtec ODT work?
Nurtec ODT is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist. CGRP is a molecule that plays a role in migraine [3]. By blocking the CGRP receptor, Nurtec ODT is thought to reduce the inflammation and vasodilation associated with migraines [3].
When did Nurtec ODT become available for migraine prevention?
In addition to its use for acute migraine treatment, Nurtec ODT received FDA approval for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in May 2021 [2].
What is the history of CGRP antagonists?
The development of CGRP antagonists marked a significant advancement in migraine treatment. The first CGRP-targeting therapy, erenumab (Aimovig), a monoclonal antibody, was approved in 2018 [4]. Nurtec ODT, as a small molecule CGRP receptor antagonist taken orally, represented a different approach to CGRP inhibition [1, 3].
How does Nurtec ODT compare to other migraine treatments?
Nurtec ODT offers a dual mechanism of action, treating both acute migraines and preventing future attacks [2]. Unlike some older migraine medications such as triptans, CGRP antagonists like Nurtec ODT are not associated with vasoconstrictive effects [3]. Other CGRP antagonists include gepants like Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) for acute treatment and injectable monoclonal antibodies for prevention [4].
What are the patent and exclusivity details for Nurtec ODT?
Information on the patent and exclusivity status of drugs like Nurtec ODT, including any upcoming patent expiries or challenges, can be tracked through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [5]. These details are crucial for understanding when generic or biosimilar competition might emerge.