Qulipta™ (atogepant) is a prescription drug used as a preventative treatment for episodic migraines.1
The active ingredient in Qulipta is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist or blocker. Qulipta is a CGRP gepant designed primarily as a preventative treatment for episodic migraines. This means you are intended to take it daily, and it should reduce the number of days you have migraines.1-3
What are the ingredients in Qulipta?
The active ingredient in Qulipta is atogepant, a small molecule that blocks the CGRP receptor.2
How does Qulipta work?
CGRP is a protein found in our bodies. It is responsible for carrying pain signals along nerves. These nerves have a role in causing the head pain linked to migraines. Gepants work by blocking CGRP from attaching to its receptor. This prevents CGRP from initiating a pain signal.3
Other CGRP gepants approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) include Ubrelvy™ (ubrogepant) and Nurtec™ (rimegepant). Ubrelvy is currently only approved for acute treatment of migraines. This means it is meant to be taken at the first sign of a migraine to reduce the severity and ease symptoms.1,3
Nurtec was initially approved for acute treatment of migraines, but the FDA extended approval to migraine prevention as well.1,3
What are the possible side effects?
The most common side effects of Qulipta include:2
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Tiredness
Less common side effects of Qulipta include lowered appetite or weight loss.2
These are not all the possible side effects of Qulipta. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Qulipta. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Qulipta.
Other things to know
Qulipta is currently available as an oral tablet with 3 different strengths. It is intended to be taken once a day. Your doctor can determine which strength is right for you.2
Qulipta may not be safe for all people. If you are interested in Qulipta, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems. Qulipta may also not be safe if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about your options for birth control and breastfeeding while taking Qulipta.2
Before beginning treatment for migraines, 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 Qulipta.