Vyepti (eptinezumab-jjmr)
Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: April 2023
Vyepti™ (eptinezumab-jjmr) is a drug approved for the preventive treatment (long-term treatment) of migraine in adults. Vyepti is given intravenously (IV) once every 12 weeks. It is not meant for the acute treatment (or fast-acting treatment) of migraine.1
What are the ingredients in Vyepti?
The active ingredient in Vyepti is eptinezumab-jjmr. Eptinezumab-jjmr is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonist. It belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies.1
How does Vyepti work?
CGRP is a protein that acts like a neurotransmitter (a chemical messenger) throughout the brain and body. CGRP is found in large numbers in the trigeminal system, the sensory nerves that supply the head and neck. Research has shown that CGRP is found in high levels during a migraine attack, which led to the development of products to block the protein.1
Vyepti is a monoclonal antibody that targets and blocks CGRP in the brain. CGRP is a protein found in these areas that transmits pain signals. Like antibodies that are created by the body to target germs, monoclonal antibodies are created in a laboratory to attach to certain proteins.1
What are the possible side effects?
The most common side effects of Vyepti include:1
- Stuffy nose and scratchy throat
- Allergic reactions
Get medical help right away if you have signs of an allergic reaction, such as:1
- Rash
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Trouble breathing
- Hives
- Redness in your face
These are not all the possible side effects of Vyepti. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Vyepti. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Vyepti.
Other things to know
There is not enough data to know if Vyepti is safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding. Before starting treatment with Vyepti, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.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 Vyepti.