Yes, Aimovig Treats Migraine
Aimovig (erenumab-aooe) is an FDA-approved prescription medication specifically for preventing migraines in adults.[1] It targets the CGRP receptor, a protein involved in migraine attacks, by blocking it to reduce the frequency of monthly migraine days.
How Aimovig Works for Migraine Prevention
Administered as a monthly self-injection under the skin, Aimovig reduces migraines by inhibiting calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which dilates blood vessels and promotes pain during attacks. Clinical trials showed patients experiencing 50% or more reduction in monthly migraine days after 3-6 months.[1][2]
Who Can Use Aimovig
Approved for adults with at least 4 migraine days per month, including episodic (4-14 days) and chronic (15+ days) migraines. Not for acute treatment during an attack—use other drugs like triptans for that.[1]
Common Side Effects Patients Report
Most frequent: injection site reactions (pain, redness), constipation, and muscle cramps. Rare serious risks include allergic reactions or high blood pressure. Patients often ask about constipation relief strategies, like increasing fiber or using laxatives.[1][2]
How Aimovig Compares to Other Migraine Preventives
| Drug | Target | Dosing | Key Difference |
|------|--------|--------|---------------|
| Aimovig | CGRP receptor blocker | Monthly injection | First in its class; fewer GI side effects than Botox |
| Emgality (galcanezumab) | CGRP antibody | Monthly injection | Also monthly; may work faster for some |
| Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) | CGRP blocker | Oral, as needed | Acute + preventive; no injections |
| Botox | Neurotoxin | Injections every 12 weeks | Better for chronic migraine with neck pain |
Aimovig edges out older options like beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) in efficacy for CGRP-responsive patients but costs more.[2]
Cost and Access
List price around $800/month without insurance; patient assistance programs from Amgen can lower it to $0-25 for eligible users. Medicare Part D covers it widely.[3]
When Does Aimovig's Patent Expire
Core patents expire in 2027-2034, with Amgen defending against biosimilar challenges. No approved generics yet—check DrugPatentWatch.com for litigation updates.[4]
[1]: FDA Label - https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/761032s000lbl.pdf
[2]: American Migraine Foundation - https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/aimovig/
[3]: GoodRx - https://www.goodrx.com/aimovig
[4]: DrugPatentWatch.com - https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/AIMOVIG