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Nurtec (rimegepant)

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By Editorial Team

2 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: May 2023 | Last updated: October 2024

Editor’s Note: Nurtec® ODT 75 mg orally disintegrating tablets were recalled on March 16, 2023, because the packaging is not child-resistant. If swallowed by young children, this drug poses a risk of poisoning. Anyone using this drug should store the drug out of sight and reach of children and contact Pfizer at 800-879-3477 for a free child-resistant pouch to store the medicine. Once Nurtec is stored safely, you may continue the use of the drug as directed by your doctor.

Nurtec® (rimegepant) is a prescription drug approved for the:1

Nurtec is an orally dissolving tablet taken by mouth. It disintegrates quickly, allowing it to dissolve and act fast in the body.1

What are the ingredients in Nurtec?

The active ingredient in Nurtec is rimegepant. Rimegepant is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist. It belongs to a class of drugs called gepants.1

How does Nurtec work?

Nurtec aims to quickly reduce pain by blocking the action of CGRP. CGRP is a protein found in the brain and nerves of the head and neck. CGRP may increase pain. People with migraine often have high levels of CGRP before and during an attack, which may be why they experience severe symptoms. By blocking the action of CGRP in the brain and some of these nerves (called the trigeminal system), migraine pain may be reduced.1

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effect of Nurtec in acute treatment of migraine with or without aura is nausea.1

The most common side effects of Nurtec in preventative treatment of episodic migraine include:1

  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Indigestion

These are not all the possible side effects of Nurtec. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Nurtec. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Nurtec.

Other things to know

Do not take Nurtec if you are allergic to rimegepant or any of the ingredients in Nurtec.1

Before starting treatment with Nurtec, tell your doctor if you have:1

  • Liver problems
  • Kidney problems

There is not enough data to know if Nurtec is safe to take while pregnant. Small amounts of Nurtec pass into breast milk. Before starting treatment with Nurtec, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. They can help you decide if Nurtec is right for you.1

Before beginning treatment for migraine, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

For more information, read the full prescribing information of Nurtec.