Erenumab

Definition

Erenumab is a monoclonal antibody medication used for the preventive treatment of migraine headaches. It works by blocking the activity of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor, which plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of migraine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Erenumab is the first FDA-approved CGRP receptor antagonist for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults.
2. Erenumab is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) once monthly as a self-injectable medication.
3. Clinical studies have shown that erenumab can significantly reduce the number of migraine days per month in patients with episodic and chronic migraine.
4. Erenumab is generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being injection site reactions, constipation, and muscle cramps.
5. Erenumab is believed to work by blocking the binding of CGRP to its receptor, thereby preventing the cascade of events that lead to the development of a migraine attack.

Review Questions

• Explain how the mechanism of action of erenumab relates to the pathophysiology of migraine headaches.
  • Erenumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets and blocks the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor. CGRP is a neuropeptide that plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of migraine by contributing to the dilation of blood vessels and the transmission of pain signals. By inhibiting the CGRP receptor, erenumab disrupts this pathological process, leading to a reduction in the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
• Describe the clinical evidence supporting the use of erenumab for the preventive treatment of migraine headaches.
  • Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of erenumab in reducing the number of migraine days per month in patients with both episodic and chronic migraine. In these studies, erenumab was shown to significantly decrease the frequency of migraine attacks compared to placebo, with a favorable safety and tolerability profile. The consistent positive results from these clinical trials have led to the FDA approval of erenumab for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults, providing a new therapeutic option for patients suffering from this debilitating condition.
• Evaluate the potential impact of erenumab on the management of migraine headaches and the overall quality of life for patients.
  • The introduction of erenumab, as the first FDA-approved CGRP receptor antagonist for migraine prevention, represents a significant advancement in the treatment of this neurological disorder. By targeting the underlying pathophysiology of migraine, erenumab has the potential to provide effective preventive treatment for patients, leading to a reduction in the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. This, in turn, can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from migraine by reducing the burden of this debilitating condition, improving their ability to engage in daily activities, and potentially reducing the need for acute migraine medications and their associated side effects. The availability of erenumab as a new preventive treatment option expands the therapeutic arsenal for healthcare providers, allowing for more personalized and effective management of migraine headaches.

Related terms

Migraine Headaches: Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, severe headaches, often accompanied by sensory disturbances, nausea, and vomiting.

CGRP (Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide): CGRP is a neuropeptide that is released during a migraine attack and contributes to the dilation of blood vessels and the transmission of pain signals.

Monoclonal Antibody: A monoclonal antibody is a laboratory-produced antibody that is designed to target a specific antigen, in this case, the CGRP receptor.