Atogepant
Migraine Disorders
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Calcitonin Gene-related Peptide Receptor Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Atogepant
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Atogepant is used to prevent migraine headaches in adults. Migraines are severe, throbbing headaches often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.
Atogepant works by blocking the action of a natural substance in the body called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptors. These receptors are involved in the development of migraines. By blocking these receptors, Atogepant helps prevent migraines.
The usual daily dose of Atogepant for episodic migraine is 10 mg, 30 mg, or 60 mg taken once daily. For chronic migraine, the recommended dose is 60 mg once daily. It should be taken with or without food at the same time each day.
The most frequently reported side effects of Atogepant include nausea, constipation, and fatigue or sleepiness. Other side effects can include decreased appetite and weight loss. If any of these side effects are severe or persistent, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Atogepant is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment or a history of hypersensitivity to the drug. It can cause fatigue or sleepiness, which could affect the ability to drive. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Indications and Purpose
What is Atogepant used for?
Atogepant is indicated for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. It is used to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks, which are severe, throbbing headaches often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.
How does Atogepant work?
Atogepant works by blocking the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor. CGRP is a neuropeptide that plays a key role in the pathophysiology of migraines by modulating pain signaling and inflammation. By antagonizing the CGRP receptor, Atogepant helps prevent the occurrence of migraine headaches.
Is Atogepant effective?
The effectiveness of Atogepant in preventing migraines has been demonstrated in clinical trials. In studies, patients taking Atogepant experienced a significant reduction in the number of monthly migraine days compared to those taking a placebo. The trials included a diverse group of patients and showed consistent results across different doses.
How does one know if Atogepant is working?
The benefit of Atogepant is evaluated by monitoring the reduction in the frequency of migraine days. Patients are often advised to keep a headache diary to track the number and severity of migraines, which can be shared with their healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Atogepant?
For adults, the usual daily dose of Atogepant for episodic migraine is 10 mg, 30 mg, or 60 mg taken once daily. For chronic migraine, the recommended dose is 60 mg once daily. The safety and effectiveness of Atogepant in children have not been established, so there is no recommended dose for children.
How do I take Atogepant?
Atogepant should be taken once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is advised to talk to your doctor about consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it may interact with the drug.
For how long do I take Atogepant?
Atogepant is used as a preventive treatment for migraines and is typically taken daily. The duration of use can vary based on individual needs and a doctor's recommendation. It is important to continue taking Atogepant even if you feel well, and not to stop without consulting your doctor.
How long does it take for Atogepant to start working?
Atogepant is designed to prevent migraines, and its effects may be noticed as a reduction in the frequency of migraine days over time. The exact time it takes to start working can vary, but patients are typically advised to continue taking the medication as prescribed and to monitor their migraine frequency with a headache diary.
How should I store Atogepant?
Atogepant should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). It is important to keep the medication out of reach of children and to store it in a safe location. Do not flush the medication down the toilet; instead, dispose of it through a medicine take-back program if available.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Atogepant?
Atogepant is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. Warnings include the potential for hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, dyspnea, and rash. Patients should discontinue use and seek medical attention if they experience these symptoms. It is also advised to avoid use in patients with severe liver impairment.
Can I take Atogepant with other prescription drugs?
Atogepant can interact with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, which can increase its exposure in the body. For episodic migraine, the dose should be adjusted to 10 mg daily when taken with these inhibitors. It is advised to avoid using Atogepant with strong CYP3A4 inducers for chronic migraine, as they can decrease its effectiveness.
Can I take Atogepant with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Atogepant be taken safely while pregnant?
There are no adequate data on the developmental risk associated with the use of Atogepant in pregnant women. Animal studies have shown adverse developmental effects at exposures greater than those used clinically. It is recommended to avoid using Atogepant during pregnancy unless the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus.
Can Atogepant be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the presence of Atogepant in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant. In animal studies, Atogepant was found in milk at levels higher than in maternal plasma. The decision to use Atogepant while breastfeeding should consider the benefits of breastfeeding and the mother's need for the medication.
Is Atogepant safe for the elderly?
For elderly patients, there are no specific dose adjustments required for Atogepant. However, caution is advised when selecting a dose, usually starting at the lower end of the dosing range. This is due to the greater likelihood of decreased liver, kidney, or heart function, and the presence of other medical conditions or medications in older adults.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Atogepant?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Atogepant?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.