Erenumab and Nausea: What Users Say (Page 2)

• uua...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 22, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "If you like splitting headaches, nausea, sleep disturbances/nightmares, fatigue, bowel problems, and muscle aches, this is the drug for you! I've had chronic migraines and cluster headaches since 2016 and haven't even been employed since then. Started Botox in 2019. It is the only treatment that has really worked for me-it's a miracle. However, I was having really bad rebound migraines between injections... enter Aimovig. What followed was a splitting, incredibly painful, multi-day headache. Not a *migraine,* just a really, really bad headache. After that initial phase, I would be overcome with fatigue, nausea, nightmares, and general malaise. My migraines respond best to diet restrictions and Botox. I'm sensitive to a lot of meds and didn't have much luck with most migraine medications, including triptans. So, if your migraine profile is similar to mine, skip Aimovig!"

• Ama...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 26, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I, like many of you, was hoping for a miracle cure. I have had migraines for 32 years. Because of the severity (3-4 a week), I was started at the 140 dose. I saw a slight decrease after month 3, but I also noticed that I was feeling tired, nauseated, and aching all the time. I developed a slight fever, so I thought it was the flu. After finding out that it wasn't, I let my neurologist know, and she said to get off it. That was 3 months ago, and I still feel horrible. I sleep all the time, the migraines not only came back but worse than before. I spent last week vomiting pretty much everything I ate and curled up in a ball with an ice pack on my head and peppermint oil on my neck. This lasted 8 days. I still have a headache, stiffness, nausea, and ache everywhere. I looked on my migraine buddy and realized it has been 47 days of some level of pain. I read that the half-life of this stuff is like 5 months, so that will be pretty much a year of my life lost. Please don't take this."

• Vic...
• November 20, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "Been on Aimovig for a year now. Everything was going great, but I began to get increasingly concerned with the effects. I missed a couple of days in between injections, the migraines returned but with increased severity. Last week, I missed one day between injections. Was sitting calmly, I was hit with kaleidoscope vision in both eyes, then vision in my left eye dimmed, dizziness, and nausea. I went to the ER concerned it was a TIA or stroke. After blood work, CT scan, and other stuff, the doctors concluded I was experiencing a complex migraine. I had never had such migraines ever, and I have had migraines since I was 11, with 5 to 7 a week. This morning, I got a piercing pain in my right eye, and the muscles in the left side of my face constricted. The ER doctors explained that migraines could cause face muscle distortion or drooping. Again, I have not had this experience before with any of my past migraines. I am not certain I want to continue this medication, which had been working great."

• Gra...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• April 2, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I have had migraines all of my life, I have tried everything as well. I started out with Aimovig on a lower dose (70mg), then we raised the dose to 140mg last month, which is when the flu-like symptoms started: nausea, lightheadedness, dizziness, can't keep food down (all the other flu-like symptoms that others are complaining about). It wasn't until I went to a doctor and had loads of tests ran that I thought to do a computer search for side effects that aren't listed on the package. Wow, I wish I had looked here first. I won't be taking any more shots, that's for sure. I have at least 140 days for it to get out of my system, it says. (It's been over 30 days so far with the flu-like symptoms. I've lost over 10 pounds so far, this is bad.)"

• Din...
• December 9, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I have severe, painful ocular sensitivity to light, which causes nausea and migraine. It is diagnosed as a migraine situation. It began suddenly three years ago and was severely disabling, fluctuating in severity over the three years. No findings on brain MRI or sophisticated eye testing. Cannot read or watch movies without pain, thus constant migraine. Botox worked for six months, then slowly stopped. Started Aimovig 70 mg on August 14th, 2019. I was doubtful as to what was going on when I immediately noticed increased eye sensitivity and pain, worsened and more diverse migraine, leaden fatigue, and a feeling of depression. I looked online and was shocked to read those exact reactions from others. Hair loss? I thought I got away without that side effect and may have for the most part, but it is now starting to shed, which it does not do. It is now going on four months. I have virtually no life. My nervous system has gone whacky, so I can tolerate little outside stimulation."

• Pin...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 7, 2018

For Migraine Prevention "I've been on Botox for 4 years and decided to try Aimovig. First month (140 mg) injections. The first 7 days, I felt nauseous, lightheaded, extreme fatigue, and hot flashes. I honestly thought I was pregnant. And I also had a 7-day migraine that was awful. I've also experienced the worst menstrual cramps. Not normal for me. It's my 2nd month (140 mg). 3rd day in and I feel nausea, lightheaded, extreme fatigue again. And, 95% of my migraines are on the left side of my head. This time, I've had a 2-day right-headed migraine and 1 sinus migraine, and my teeth hurt. I don't take any onset medication because they don't work for me. In fact, I had more migraines and the intensity was the worst I've had in years. I don't think I will continue on my 3rd month. I'm really sad and mad that this is happening to me. I had high hopes for this medication. But I am glad that some of you are having good experiences with Aimovig."

• Chr...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 26, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I just took Aimovig for the first time yesterday. I had stomach cramps in the afternoon but didn’t think much of it. Last night, I woke up at midnight and felt extremely disoriented, dizzy, nauseous, shaking, and my lips and hands were numb. I felt like I was having a major adverse reaction and had to get my husband to call the ambulance (first time in my 38 years). I would never recommend this drug to anyone because none of these side effects were even listed as possibilities. The next day I had a terrible migraine from staying up all night at the hospital and now have that under control but am still extremely lightheaded, have stomach cramps, and still feel numb in my hands/lips. I hope this drug gets out of my body soon!"

• Bab...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 3, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "Just before my 3rd dose of 70 mg, I experienced days of headaches and a day-long migraine. I had to use a Tylenol & codeine (1/2) tablet. Immediately after the first dose, I had severe constipation, nausea, gagging, abdominal pain, pelvic bone pain, low back pain, and feet that felt like they were trapped in bricks. My lower legs gave out, and I had to resort to using a walker. I have no stamina or desire to do anything. My weight is up 12 lbs in 3 months, feet are so swollen that they are inflexible. My right leg is now 3 inches larger than the left. Daily headaches and tinnitus have overtaken the migraines. Aspirin or NSAIDs help for an hour, then I have to chew on an antacid or two because of acid reflux. NO more Aimovig for me."

• Lau...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 25, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I began having joint pain and swelling, as well as nausea, shortness of air, and dizziness since starting Aimovig. I reported my side effects to the FDA, but I don't think they care. My migraines have been the same, if not worse. Very frustrating because my doctor states Aimovig has no side effects."

• The...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 1, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "This drug was a free trial. My biggest regret? Injecting it... I'm suffering the effects, and I still have only taken one injection on July 2nd, and that is sufficient enough for me. Never ever again. Migraines worsened, neck stiffness, lightheaded all the time, terrible nausea, my stomach looked like I had blown up a balloon inside me. The worst part was severe vertigo, some days the room would spin around and around, and I had to hold onto the wall down the passageway. Stemetil has eased it but only slightly. I'm so unhappy about these side effects. I have never had a reaction like this. I will be staying on Topamax and Maxalt wafers. My advice: do not touch this poison!"

• Tra...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 5, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I have been doing these Aimovig shots for 3 months, and I am still in disbelief. Nothing has worked for me in the past. Only one triptan out of all of the ones I tried was helpful 50% of the time, with awful side effects, and my insurance would not even pay for it. So it was not worth it. I took Fioricet when I would get migraines, and it got to a point where my headaches were more days than not, and I was scared I was taking too much Fioricet. The doctor had me try Aimovig. I was thinking, okay, but this will not work either. But it has worked! I don’t even remember the last time I had a headache or needed a Fioricet. I will say the first week after my first injection, I felt very nauseous, but I do not know if it was the shot or not. I did not feel anything after the last 2 shots. The only side effect is constipation for me."

• IMS...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• February 24, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "I have been on Aimovig 140 for 8 months. It’s a wonder drug for the migraines. I may get 1-2 a month now (if that). Before, it was almost daily. However, I am now experiencing awful side effects-dizziness, chest and back pain, nausea, shortness of breath about 9 days after the shot. This is the only new drug I am taking, so these side effects have to be a result of it. I have done extensive blood work and everything is clear. Strangely enough, I don’t have the constipation side effect. I have not yet decided whether to stop or not."

• Spa...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 13, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "This is my first month on Aimovig, and my headaches are better but not great. Side effects are severe nausea, fatigue, dizziness, sore muscles, feel lifeless. Have very little appetite, and I could sleep all day long. Think I will pass on this from now on."

• Joa...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 4, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I’ve taken one 70 mg dose of Aimovig so far. First off, the injection (given in the left arm) hurt like anything. It was like getting harshly stabbed with a large needle. Now, I’m dealing with crazy side effects. Severe dizziness, blurred vision, and sometimes even trouble taking deep breaths. It’s as if my lungs will not expand all the way. Oh!! And don’t forget the constipation!! Despite the side effects, I have seen a decrease in my migraines. When I do get one, they have changed—more nausea and now dizziness!! Side effects are disruptive and awful. I will not be injecting myself with this drug EVER again."

• OBa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 25, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I did not have a successful experience. I would like to go through the side effects that weren't listed: trouble breathing (out of breath), dizziness, flu-like symptoms, joint pain, nausea. Stomach cramps became so bad I ended up not being able to eat for several months. I wish I had never taken Aimovig, it did way more harm than good, in my opinion."

• DEa...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 27, 2018

For Migraine Prevention "I took my first trial shot 70 mg/ml a few weeks ago, and it flared my fibromyalgia. I have been nauseous, plus my muscles have been extremely sore and weak, along with fatigue and daily headaches. I don't know if I can do another month if this continues or gets worse. I have UnitedHealth through my husband, and they don't cover it."

• Liv...
• July 11, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "42-year-old male. Living with migraines most of my life, on average experiencing 13 days/month with symptoms. They start with bad, blinding auras, sensitivity to light and smells, confusion, nausea. Following this, extreme pain that can last from 5 minutes to 5 hours. The worst is the 'hangover' the following day that leaves you exhausted like a zombie, with pain behind my eye when I sneeze or cough. I started Aimovig 70 mg 3 months ago, and I can say this drug has changed my life. I am now logging 3-4 days/month with symptoms, and they are mild. It seems like the auras 'almost' come, and the pain, whenever it shows up, is more manageable. Best part: no hangover. The first month, the constipation was bad and had to be managed with Miralax, it was even giving me abdominal pain. It seems to be getting better by month 3. Frankly, the constipation is a small price to pay (and is manageable) when compared to the gain of much lower frequency of migraines. Aimovig worked for me!"

• Oma...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 23, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "Many side effects for which many were not listed. Aside from muscle cramps and constipation, flu-like symptoms, sore muscles, nausea that would not go away, bloating, ... But the worst was suppression of appetite. Joints also affected, it's just so horrible for what I paid."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 27, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "I have had 2 months of injections of Aimovig. By the second month, I started feeling exhausted and nausea that comes and goes all day long. I will no longer take this medicine, just not worth feeling this sick."

• Ano...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 31, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I've had headaches/migraines since I was 20 and been to headache specialists, neurologists, PCPs... FINALLY, my new neurologist tried me on AIMOVIG 70 mg. I've done only ONE injection and will NEVER DO IT AGAIN!! The injection has caused severe constipation, a very itchy scalp (to the point I thought I had lice!!), severe body pain, especially in my feet and hands - I'm dropping things because I can't get a grip on anything! I've noticed an increase in my appetite/weight, low energy, nausea, my hair falling out, and stomach pain. I still have really bad headaches, but I knew the medicine wouldn't work this soon. After I researched this drug, I saw my symptoms seem to be a common pattern. I had an emergency appointment with my doctor about the Aimovig, she had to put me on pain meds, referred me to a pain doctor/neurologist to discuss possibly trying Botox. I can't wait for this awful injection to work itself out of my body!!! I don't recommend this to anyone!!!!"

• HBa...
• May 1, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I have suffered from severe migraines for 20 years. I am allergic to Imitrex and Topamax. I have tried every other med with no relief. Botox worked for a few months, then stopped working. I started Aimovig last month, just gave my 2nd shot Friday. I have had a slight reduction in severity and amount of migraines. Downside is that I have had severe nausea since I began the shot. I have not experienced any constipation. I thought I didn't make the connection until 3 weeks after my 1st dose. Usually nausea most of the day, severe mid-morning and late afternoon and evening. The day before my shot was due, I let it lapse for another day and had no nausea those 2 days. The pharmacist told me that it's probably not the Aimovig and I should try it again. I decided I would just to prove a point. I am regretting it. Gave the shot and 4 days later, severe nausea again. I think they need an update on side effects! I will NOT be continuing this medication."

• Mom...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 14, 2018

For Migraine Prevention "I took my 1st 140 mg shots on 8/17. Has helped my chronic migraines decrease in intensity. Except for one day, pain was off the chart. The next day, I woke up better. The only drawback is the relentless nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. I will try another month to see if it is worth the nausea and diarrhea for decreased pain."

• Dod...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 24, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "This went from bad to worse. This is day 7, and I wake up every morning with a headache, tight chest, dizziness, lightheadedness, and nausea. I’m trying to cope with all these symptoms and stomach issues. Honestly, I don’t think I will be doing a second course of the meds. Yes, I have noticed my migraines be less, but the side effects outweigh the issues I have. I’m sorry, I will have to pass on this."

• Bec...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 18, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "Took first dose (140) during a 6/10 migraine attack, 3 weeks ago. The next day I had the worst migraine (10/10) that I’ve had in months with no relief from triptans. Since then, I’ve gone from 1-2 migraines per week (which would typically be successfully treated with triptans) to a headache or migraine every day. The triptan that I normally take to abort a migraine seems to have become ineffective since the Aimovig shot. I’ve been spending a lot of time sleeping due to the antiemetics I’ve been taking to ease the nausea, but also just to put me out of my misery since all my traditional techniques of migraine relief haven’t worked since the shot. I have not been back down to my baseline of headache-free since the shot. I’m discouraged that I may not be a good candidate for this drug, which I had such high hopes for. I’m afraid to take next month’s dose...that it will cripple me again for the month to follow."

• Lel...
• July 31, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I took Aimovig in Feb 2019 after not responding to preventive meds, including Botox. I had 2 (70mg) injections. I was nauseated, had heart palpitations, intense itch on feet, and felt like I had the flu after the injection. My migraines got worse from 12-15 monthly to almost daily. Migraines did not respond to triptans, promethazine, or CBD, but abortives worked once Aimovig cleared my system in about 45 days. I had the worst constipation and foul gas - used stool softeners. I got random migraines after avoiding triggers. I had about 4 hours of sleep at night (week 1-2). My hair fell out, and I had to cut my hair (week 2-3). My period became irregular with a 60-day cycle, and it has been irregular since. It appears the trials excluded people who failed most preventives. Did anyone gain weight? 5 pounds of unexplained weight. Other issues include sciatica pain, pain in inner thighs, fatigue, and stinky gas! Does Aimovig increase phosphates in blood? My last test showed elevated phosphates."