How does Qulipta work?

Qulipta works by blocking a key protein in your body called calcitonin-related gene peptide, or CGRP, to help prevent migraine headaches and the transmission of pain. Qulipta belongs to the gepant class of CGRP receptor antagonists and is intended for oral administration.

What is Qulipta’s mechanism of action (MOA)?

Qulipta belongs to the class of drugs known as calcitonin-related gene peptide (CGRP) antagonists which means it blocks the CGRP receptor in the body. CGRP is a protein made naturally in the body. It’s found in the sensory nerves of the head and neck and causes blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to inflammation and migraine pain.

Research suggests there may be a connection between CGRP, CGRP receptors, and migraine headaches. When CGRP binds to CGRP receptors, it causes pain, inflammation, and vasodilation. By blocking the CGRP receptor, Qulipta helps to prevent the pain involved in a migraine. The exact mechanism that causes a migraine is still under study, but CGRP is known to play a role.

Qulipta was specifically designed to prevent migraine headaches and is not used to treat other medical conditions, like some older migraine therapies.

What is Qulipta used for?

Qulipta (atogepant), also known as a gepant, is a prescription oral tablet taken once daily for the preventive treatment of episodic and chronic migraine headaches. People who have episodic migraines typically have 14 or fewer migraine days per month. Chronic migraine is defined as 15 or more headache days per month, each lasting 4 or more hours.

A migraine headache is usually accompanied by severe, throbbing headaches (sometimes on just one side of the head), nausea and vomiting, or sensitivity to light, sound or touch. A migraine attack can last from 4 hours to 3 days in length. Qulipta can help to lower the frequency and severity of migraine headaches

Preventive migraine treatment may be recommended for people who have frequent, long-lasting, or very severe migraines. Qulipta is not used to treat a migraine headache that has already started.

Learn more: What are the new drugs for the treatment of migraines?

This is not all the information you need to know about Qulipta (atogepant) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

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