What are the key differences between Ajovy and Emgality?
Ajovy and Emgality are both medications used to prevent migraine headaches in adults. Ajovy is an injectable calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist, while Emgality is an injectable monoclonal antibody that targets the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway [1].
How do side effects compare?
Ajovy has a lower incidence of injection site reactions compared to Emgality [2]. Additionally, Ajovy has a lower rate of neutropenia, a decrease in neutrophils (white blood cells) that can increase the risk of infections [3]. However, Emgality has a lower rate of antibody formation against CGRP, which may reduce its effectiveness over time [4].
What are the dosing regimens for each medication?
Ajovy is administered via a subcutaneous injection (under the skin) once a month [5]. Emgality is also administered via a subcutaneous injection, but its dosage is tailored to the individual patient's response, with an initial loading dose and then a dose administered every 3 months [6].
How do the prices of Ajovy and Emgality compare?
The cost of Ajovy is slightly lower than Emgality, with a monthly price of around $6,900 compared to Emgality's price of around $7,400 [7].
When do these medications become available off patent?
Ajovy's patent is set to expire in 2035, while Emgality's patent is set to expire in 2036 (via Drug Patent Watch) [8]
Sources:
[1] Ajovy Prescribing Information
[2] Emgality Prescribing Information
[3] Ajovy ClinicalTrials.gov (Study: A Study Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of AJV04501 in Adult Participants With Migraine)
[4] Emgality ClinicalTrials.gov (Study: Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of a Migraine Prevention Therapy in Adults)
[5] Ajovy Prescribing Information
[6] Emgality Prescribing Information
[7] AARP (Prices of Medications)
[8] DrugPatentWatch.com (Patent expiration dates)