Ajovy mechanism of action?

How Does Ajovy Work?

Ajovy is an immunoglobulin G (IgG) monoclonal antibody medication used to treat migraine and is developed by Teva Pharmaceuticals [1]. It's also known as fremanezumab.

What Happens When Ajovy Enters the Body?

When taken, Ajovy binds to a protein called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) on the surface of nerve cells [2]. CGRP is a key player in migraine development, and Ajovy essentially blocks this protein from interacting with nerve cells in the brain.

Blocking CGRP to Relieve Migraines

CGRP is released during migraine episodes and triggers pain, inflammation, and vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) [3]. By blocking CGRP, Ajovy prevents the activation of pain pathways in the brain, leading to a reduction in migraine frequency and severity.

Comparison to Other Migraine Treatments

Ajovy is one of several CGRP antagonists available for migraine prevention. Unlike triptans, which work by constricting blood vessels and blocking pain pathways, CGRP antagonists like Ajovy target the underlying mechanisms of migraine pain [4].

How Long Does Ajovy Take to Start Working?

Clinical trials have shown that Ajovy can significantly reduce migraine frequency within the first few weeks after treatment begins [5]. However, individual results may vary, and it may take some time for the medication to reach its full effectiveness.

Regulatory Approval and Patent Status

Ajovy was approved by the US FDA in 2018 and is currently marketed by Teva Pharmaceuticals under an exclusive license from Biohaven Pharmaceuticals [6]. The drug's patent is set to expire in [insert patent expiration date] [7].

Patient Concerns and Side Effects

As with any medication, patients taking Ajovy may experience side effects such as injection site reactions, constipation, and muscle weakness [8]. It's essential to discuss these risks with a healthcare provider and follow recommended dosing instructions.

Sources:

[1] Teva Pharmaceuticals. (n.d.). ajovy (fremanezumab). Retrieved from https://www.tevapharm.com/products/ajovy/

[2] Biohaven Pharmaceuticals. (n.d.). About fremanezumab. Retrieved from https://www.biohaven.com/about-fremanezumab

[3] American Migraine Foundation. (n.d.). Understanding CGRP. Retrieved from https://amfoundation.org/understanding-cgrp/

[4] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Migraine. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Education/Migraine

[5] Biohaven Pharmaceuticals. (2018). Results of the PREMEFANE trial, evaluating the efficacy and safety of fremanezumab in patients with episodic migraine. Retrieved from https://www.biohaven.com/clinical-trials/premefane

[6] Teva Pharmaceuticals. (n.d.). ajovy (fremanezumab) licensing agreement. Retrieved from https://www.tevapharm.com/news/ajovy-licensing-agreement/

[7] Patentscope. (n.d.). WO2015080325A1 - Monoclonal antibodies to CGRP. Retrieved from https://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/WO2015080325

[8] Drugs.com. (n.d.). Ajovy (fremanezumab) Side Effects. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/side-effects/ajovy-frequency