Fremanezumab

Fremanezumab

Fremanezumab, marketed under the brand name Ajovy

Fremanezumab, marketed under the brand name Ajovy, is a monoclonal antibody used for the prevention of migraines. It is specifically designed to target and inhibit the activity of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a molecule involved in the pathophysiology of migraine.

Mechanism of Action

Fremanezumab works by binding to the CGRP ligand, thereby preventing it from interacting with its receptor. CGRP is a neuropeptide that plays a crucial role in the transmission of pain and the development of migraine headaches. By inhibiting CGRP, fremanezumab reduces the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

Administration

Fremanezumab is administered via subcutaneous injection. It is available in two dosing regimens: a monthly dose of 225 mg or a quarterly dose of 675 mg. The choice of regimen depends on the patient's preference and clinical response.

Clinical Use

Fremanezumab is indicated for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. It has been shown to significantly reduce the number of migraine days per month in clinical trials. Patients receiving fremanezumab have reported improvements in their quality of life and a reduction in the use of acute migraine medications.

Side Effects

Common side effects of fremanezumab include injection site reactions, such as pain, redness, and swelling. Some patients may experience hypersensitivity reactions. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor patients for any adverse effects and manage them appropriately.

Development and Approval

Fremanezumab was developed by Teva Pharmaceuticals. It received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in September 2018 for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. The approval was based on the results of several phase III clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety.

Related Pages

• Migraine
• Monoclonal antibody
• Calcitonin gene-related peptide
• Teva Pharmaceuticals