Does Aimovig Cause Constipation for Most Users?
No, Aimovig (erenumab) does not cause constipation for most users. Clinical trials and post-marketing data show constipation occurs in about 3-6% of patients, mainly mild cases resolving without stopping treatment.[1][2]
How Common Are Gastrointestinal Side Effects with Aimovig?
Constipation ranks among the top GI issues but affects far fewer than 10% of users. In pivotal trials like STRIVE, 3% reported it versus 1% on placebo. Nausea (4-7%) and abdominal pain (2-5%) appear slightly more often, though all remain uncommon.[1][3]
Why Does Constipation Happen with Aimovig?
Aimovig blocks CGRP receptors involved in migraine pain but also gut motility. This can slow digestion in sensitive users, though the effect is dose-related and less severe than with triptans or opioids.[2][4]
What Do Real Users Report About Constipation?
Patient forums and reviews (e.g., Drugs.com, WebMD) note constipation in 5-10% of experiences, often early in treatment. Many manage it with hydration, fiber, or laxatives; severe cases are rare and lead to discontinuation in under 1%.[5][6]
How Does Aimovig's Constipation Risk Compare to Other Migraine Preventives?
Lower than Botox (up to 10%) or Emgality (6-7%), similar to Ajovy (3%). Ajovy users report less GI upset overall.[1][3][7]
When Should You Worry About Constipation on Aimovig?
Seek medical help if it persists beyond 1-2 weeks, causes severe pain, or includes vomiting/bloating—these signal rare bowel obstruction (0.2% risk).[2][4] Most cases self-resolve.
[1]: Aimovig Prescribing Information (Amgen)
[2]: FDA Label for Aimovig
[3]: NEJM STRIVE Trial (2017)
[4]: CGRP Mechanism Review, Headache Journal (2019)
[5]: Drugs.com Aimovig Reviews
[6]: WebMD Patient Ratings
[7]: Ajovy Prescribing Information (Teva)