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Can Aimovig cause hair loss (alopecia)?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Nov 16, 2023.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Aimovig (erenumab-aooe), a medicine used for migraine prevention, did not lead to hair loss (alopecia) during clinical trials submitted for FDA-approval. Alopecia has been reported as a possible side effect in post-marketing reports.

The most common side effects with Aimovig include injection site reactions and constipation, which can be serious. Cramps, muscle spasms and allergic reactions have also been reported.

Other monoclonal antibody CGRP inhibitors used for migraine prevention and associated with hair loss in post-marketing reports including Ajovy, Emgality, Vyepti and Ubrelvy. However, FDA Medwatch reports are voluntary and from a population of uncertain size, so it is not always possible to prove the side effect was caused by the drug or know how many people it may affect.

If you are experiencing hair thinning or hair loss, it may be due to a medical condition or another medication. Contact your healthcare provider for further advice.

Does Aimovig cause any serious side effects?

Call your health care provider or get emergency medical help right away if you experience swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat, or have trouble breathing. These are all signs of a possible allergic reaction with Aimovig.

These are not all the possible side effects of Aimovig. For more information, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for details on side effects and view the product information.

See also: Aimovig side effects (in more detail)

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Bottom Line

This is not all the information you need to know about Aimovig (erenumab-aooe) for safe and effective use. Review the full product information, and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider.

References
  • Ruiz M, Cocores A, Tosti A, et al. Alopecia as an emerging adverse event to CGRP monoclonal antibodies: Cases Series, evaluation of FAERS, and literature review. Cephalalgia. 2023;43(2). doi:10.1177/03331024221143538
  • Aimovig (erenumab-aooe) product information. Amgen. Thousand Oaks, CA. Revised May 2023. Accessed August Nov. 16, 2023.

Read next

How long does Aimovig last in your system?

It takes approximately 154 days (22 weeks, or over 5 months) for Aimovig to be eliminated out of your system. Aimovig is a prescription medicine injected monthly for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. Continue reading

What is the mechanism of action of Aimovig?

Aimovig (erenumab-aooe) works by blocking the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor binding site and function. This helps to prevent the development of a migraine headache and associated pain. CGRP is a protein thought to cause blood vessels to dilate and lead to inflammation and migraine headache pain. Continue reading

How long can Aimovig be out of the fridge?

Once you remove Aimovig (erenumab-aooe) from the refrigerator, you must use it within 7 days. Do not put Aimovig back in the refrigerator after it has reached room temperature Continue reading

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