Emgality User Reviews & Ratings (Page 3)

• Ann...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 19, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I started taking this medicine on July 4th, about 3 weeks ago. First thing I noticed is that I used to have about two weeks a month of headaches due to hormones. Now I'm having daily headaches. Also, I have constipation, major anxiety, trouble sleeping, and itchy hives on my chest. Some days I have no energy and other days I have extreme, negative anxiety. My throat hurts all the time and I'm having sinus issues. I've read that the half-life of this drug is about 28 days, but it takes 5 months to completely leave the body. I hope this has helped others who were unfortunate to use Emgality, and to know that they are not alone with all the negative side effects."

• Tlc...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 31, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "Beware of this drug. I started taking it in April. By June, I was hospitalized for intestinal blockage for 4 days, and my blood pressure was running around 160/100 (I already was on a BP med). My waist was literally 11' larger, and nothing worked at home. The GIS in the hospital were flabbergasted because nothing was working there either. No one put the Emgality and side effects together because they are severely underreported, and it's such a new drug. Neurologists have been prescribing this like candy with no long-term monitoring, and patients just don't know because it's supposed to be the better drug in the new class. The really sad thing is that it works for the migraines. So do I lay in the fetal position puking my guts out again or keep fighting the ongoing intestinal blockage and BP with an arsenal of drugs and FODMAP diet to try and beat the side effects? It's a heck of a conundrum."

• Sup...
• August 21, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "After starting Emgality, I started having GI issues. I had severe constipation, severe abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, insomnia, back pain, weight gain. It did take away the headaches; hardly any headaches or migraines. I spent over $2,000 on procedures trying to determine what was wrong with me, and now I'm faced with the fact that it was side effects from this medicine. I've only been off of it for a couple of weeks, so it's going to take a while to get out of my system. I am truly hoping that it doesn't take the whole 5 months for me to feel better. It's not worth all the side effects. The part of me regrets taking it, but had I not taken it, I would have wondered if I was suffering from migraines needlessly. Well, I have my answer... I want my body back even if it means the migraines as well. Thank you so much, everyone, for posting and letting me know that I'm not crazy."

• DDa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 16, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "I started Emgality a month and a half ago. The drug worked quickly. But after 2 days, I got severe back pain, hip (joints), and extreme constipation. The migraines went down. I have gained 10 pounds without changing my eating habits, and my back and hip are hurting. I was in bed for two weeks and could not move. But the headaches were fine. Three days before the second shot, my back felt a little better. In the second injection the next day, the terrible back pain returned, and the weight gain continued already (12 pounds). The neurologist decided to take me off the drug. Emgality helped a lot with the headaches, but the back, hip, constipation, and weight gain are too much on my body. I wish it would work for me. It worked and eliminated the headaches and migraines, but the side effects were too much for me. I have 2 more weeks, and I hope the side effects will leave my body. It hurts so bad."

• Sic...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 17, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I have had migraines every day for over 30 years. I have been to numerous headache hospitals all over the country. I tried Botox, got bad side effects, especially with my eyes, had to stop. Then went to Aimovig - bad side effects again, heart problems, body aches, and made me very dizzy. Then went to Emgality, and these side effects are horrible: UTIs, flu symptoms, body aches, heart beating out of my chest. Loss of memory, feel like I can't get out of bed never ever again. I am on Imitrex and Zomig every day, this works. But I take one or the other every day. I have not ever been without a headache. These meds, Aimovig, Emgality, and Botox just don't work for me. Please tell the manufacturers that these are scary."

• Pat...
• May 5, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "I have been taking Emgality for a few months. Helped the migraines, but the second month I did the injection, I developed a rash at the injection site, and the subsequent injections seem like the reaction is getting worse. When I spoke to my neurologist, she said to take Claritin before the injection, but I get drowsy with any kind of antihistamines (even the ones that say non-drowsy). I tried Benadryl before the shot, but still got a bad reaction, and the neurologist told me it’s possible I could get a bad anaphylactic reaction. So I think I will not take the Emgality anymore. Will have to take my rescue Amerge when I get a migraine and keep looking for my miracle cure one day. I do believe that all side effects of Emgality are not well known yet and are under-reported."

• Sap...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 20, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "This drug, Emgality, was amazing for migraines. I went from 20+ a month to maybe 2. However, after three injections, I finally figured out it was causing my depression and anxiety. I had been on antidepressants already, and my depression was controlled. Once I started Emgality, it was a slow downward spiral that is so severe I’m not working and have to force myself to leave the house. My sleep is horrible (even with sleeping meds). It’s been almost three months since my last injection, and there’s been no improvement in my psychiatric issues. My doctor has already made two med changes with my antidepressant with no results. This is terrifying."

• Joa...
• January 12, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "Started Emgality 2/19. Have had a shot monthly through 12/19. Didn't really lessen my migraines much but kept at it. Was also on Propranolol & Topamax. Got off Topamax in Aug. Bad constipation started immediately, plus weight gain. But now after getting off Topamax, it seems my side effects are worsening. Bloating is becoming unbearable, and now shortness of breath. Not taking another dose. Not worth it. I'm grateful for these reviews because I thought something was terribly wrong with me."

• JWe...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 20, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I have been on it for 2 weeks, 2 loading doses were administered. Yes, it’s painful, but nothing compared to a migraine. My neurologist told me no side effects other than injection site reaction- I should’ve gone home and researched it before agreeing! I have had horrible anxiety and constipation. My stomach constantly feels bloated, and I have gained 8 lbs. I have had fewer headaches, but not worth the side effects to me. My antidepressant lessens their frequency enough for me without side effects. Definitely worth trying, just don’t believe it if they tell you no side effects! It’s only been available 1 year, and there are no long-term studies of the effects of this drug. Not interested in being a guinea pig, no more Emgality for me."

• Lis...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• March 10, 2023

For Cluster Headaches "I have been taking this medication for about a year. It has helped considerably with my headaches, but I have had severe side effects. Honestly, I didn't consider that it was the Emgality, as the listed side effects were almost none. I have severe bloating- I feel like I have eaten a three-course meal almost all of the time- slight nausea almost all of the time, no matter what I have eaten, which is almost nothing. I have gained weight too. Extreme fatigue, brain fog, insomnia. Unfortunately, I am in the midst of perimenopause, so it's been difficult to tell what is causing all of these issues. I recently took a dose, but it will be my last. I just hope I eventually get back to my former self- even with the headaches. Can anyone tell me how long this will actually last? I can't figure out how to ask questions from people who have commented."

• Don...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 13, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I took the loading dose of Emgality last December, and I'm still fighting the HORRIBLE side effects of this drug. I have had the most MADDENING ITCHY rash and hives all over my back, arms, and legs, and my face! I'm talking about so itchy that I can hardly sit still without trying to literally tear off my skin. I've seen 5 doctors, and I've had 4 rounds of steroids, and I've had 2 rounds of antibiotics due to leg infections from scratching. I've also experienced severe leg swelling, abdominal bloating, and constipation. I'm also so fatigued and have to sleep during the afternoon to get through the day. I can't wait until this drug is out of my system. I would rather have a migraine every day than deal with these side effects. RUN from Emgality, and then RUN some more."

• Ann...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 3, 2023

For Cluster Headaches "Horrible! Injection hurt very much. Within 20 minutes, I was feeling dizzy and nauseous. My feet and knees were swollen, and I had shallow breathing. Had my daughter take pictures to show my doctor. Went to urgent care. The doctor agreed I had a bad reaction. Today, I woke up with a sore throat and headache. Taking Zyrtec that the doctor prescribed and pain meds. Activated my chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and trigeminal nerve. Now I have 28 more days of this drug in my system. Can’t wait to see what else happens."

• Daw...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 7, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I have never been so sick. I have been dizzy and nauseous since I took this shot 6 days ago. I feel super hot and like I could throw up, but I haven't. I also have a horrible sore throat. I had none of these issues prior to getting the Emgality shot. Since then, I've felt depressed and haven't been able to function. I'm having trouble sleeping too. Whatever happens, don't take this drug! None of this was listed as a possible side effect, and I wish I'd never taken this drug. I would do anything to get it out of my system."

• Sur...
• June 13, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "Let me start off by saying I have tried EVERYTHING out there for my daily headaches and migraines. When I was first introduced to Emgality, I initially thought this would be just another medicine that wouldn’t work for me. Boy, was I wrong. I went from literally waking up with a migraine or headache every single day to only having one per month, which was easily managed with over-the-counter medicine. This medicine has truly changed my life. I used to not be able to go out and have a good time because I feared the loud music would induce another migraine. I wasn’t able to spend time outside in the sun, as it would usually create a headache and eventually a migraine. Now, I can go out and listen to my favorite music without any worries. I can spend time in my garden and play with my son without having to dread a headache afterward. This medicine has made such a difference in my life, and I’m truly thankful to have something that actually helps me."

• Lad...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 18, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "I have had migraines since I was nine years old (I'm 42). I have them during my cycle monthly, as well as other triggers. When I get them, they usually last approximately 3-7 days. I was up to about 15 migraine days per month before Emgality. I took my first dose on September 12th, 2019, and the migraines vanished. I have had a few slight headaches since then, but not one migraine. It's amazing to know what it feels like to not have migraines and trying to work through it and live your life normally during pain. But now, the last few months, my anxiety is worse, I'm very irritable, have brain fog, I am having stomach pain, I am bloated, and my blood pressure and weight are up. I'm loving not having migraines so much I've even thought about not stopping with the side effects, even though I need to. I've prayed for something to work for all these years. I finally experienced how it is to be without migraines, I'll probably have to go back to migraines. Frustrated."

• Mig...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 6, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "I took this 5 days ago and have had constant nausea since. I have been horribly depressed and sad and wasn’t before this shot! I also have a horrible sore throat and am exhausted. DO NOT TAKE THIS. IT IS SO MUCH WORSE THAN ANY MIGRAINE."

• MJa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 13, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "Beware the super long half-life of this drug -- side effects take forever to abate. First dose July 8, last dose August 9. Never again. I was on Aimovig for a year (which worked!), but insurance made me switch. Migraines came roaring back after the switch to this medication. First dose caused mild hives for a week or so. Second dose caused a delayed severe hives reaction that started 4 days after injection and is still going a month later. I've also gained 15 pounds since the start of treatment. Needless to say, I'm done. As soon as the hives go away, I'm going back to Aimovig. PLEASE REPORT YOUR SIDE EFFECTS to the FDA and Eli Lilly."

• Lol...
• January 12, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "I got my initial dose at the end of October. I only had 2 headaches the following month. Felt bloated about 1 week after, thought I was eating too much rich food. At the end of November, my period lasted for 10 days (normally 5). 2nd shot on Dec 5, got hives on my leg for a week. Bloating, abdominal pain, cramping got worse. I’ve gained 10 lbs, all in my stomach, and look pregnant. Explained these symptoms to my mom, who pointed out this started after I started Emgality. I asked a pharmacist friend who said a lot of people have been complaining about the side effects, and my symptoms could be from Emgality. I’m supposed to take my next dose, but will not. It’s a bummer because it does work for migraines, but not worth the pain in my abdomen, and I’m concerned about long-term unknown effects of this new drug. Hope I didn’t do lasting damage and hope this medicine will leave my body soon."

• Ren...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 17, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "I have used Emgality twice now. It has lessened my migraines, which I've had since age 9 (now 57); however, at what cost? I am having debilitating pain in my left knee the first month, which continues. Now having pain in my left thigh, which feels like a stabbing, muscle-contorting pain like a charley horse you get in your calf. Several times a day. I can barely walk at times. I will not take a third shot. The doctor wants me to try Botox next. My migraine frequency was at the 15 per month range prior to Emgality. I tried Amiovig, but the constipation was off the chart."

• Dox...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 8, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "I had my first double-shot loading dose 8 days ago. I had no headache the first day, but stomach cramps and a strange feeling of anxiety. Day 2 got a low-grade migraine, which has not subsided since. Yes, I've had a headache for the past week despite Emgality, along with intermittent constipation (not too bad) and anxiety. Other strange symptoms are: food tastes and smells weird, forgetfulness, and brain fog (the other day I forgot if I took a shower). The worst thing of all is the constant headache - it was not like this before, so Emgality has actually made my headaches worse. It takes a VERY long time to leave your system, so think twice before starting this medication. I wish I hadn't. Then again, if I didn't do it, I would never know and would always be wondering."

• Jen...
• June 7, 2019

For Migraine Prevention "Emgality has caused many side effects for me that are not listed. In the two months that I've been using Emgality, I have had pain and irritation at the injection site, rapid weight gain, swelling of the abdomen and legs from fluid retention, chest pain with palpitations, body aches, constipation, and excessive sleepiness. I cannot wait for this drug to get out of my system."

• Cha...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 18, 2020

For Migraine Prevention "Aimovig caused severe constipation, so my neurologist switched me to Emgality. Both drugs work well, and migraines are almost non-existent now, which has completely changed my life. I have noticed weird dreams, but no other side effects. I am so happy with Emgality. I was able to return to work full-time after 13 years of disability due to migraines."

• MTH...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• March 4, 2025

For Migraine Prevention "One of the rare males that have migraines. Been taking Emgality for about 4 years. Was having 8-10 a month and now down to zero. Painful giving the shot for about 10 seconds each month, but well worth 10 seconds to be migraine-free. Used to carry migraine pills with me but no longer do. Good luck, and I hope this helps."

• She...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 16, 2022

For Migraine Prevention "If you have or suspect you have any sort of mental health problems, stay away from Emgality. The first loading dose didn’t do much except give me a little more energy. The second injection seemed to help reduce migraines, and I was rather optimistic. By the third injection, headaches returned worse than before with a myriad of side effects. Stupidly, I had a fourth injection. That was 2 months ago. Now I have headaches almost constantly. Along with that, my anxiety has turned into panic attacks. I also have reflux, brain fog, sore joints, strange heartbeat rhythm, extreme fatigue, and a general feeling of dread. I have read that it takes 6 months for this drug to get out of your system, and it can’t come soon enough. My neurologist swore it wouldn’t affect my mental health, but he was wrong! He only rattled off what was provided to him by the drug maker. Medication with such a long half-life will really bite you in the backside when it goes wrong. Pray I feel better soon."

• Bba...
• January 11, 2021

For Migraine Prevention "I did two doses first round and had no migraine the whole month! Dreaded the injection the second month. It hurts! My mood was melancholy, and my bowels had slowed. I assumed it was stress from work. I got two major migraines that month, 10 times what I was used to. Came time for the third injection. I was super depressed (so out of character), ears ringing, and I hadn’t had a bowel movement in a week. When I went to the neurologist, who said it was related to the medication, and I need to stop immediately. I had had the third injection that morning. It takes months for it to get out of my system. I downward spiraled into a depression unexplainable. I had a constant headache for months that would turn to migraine then back to a headache. It’s been 6 months, I still have issues with peristalsis of my gut. My brain literally doesn’t tell my guts I need to go anymore. I would not recommend. My migraines are so much worse than before I started Emgality."