Can Aimovig cause hair loss (alopecia)?

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?

• Constipation can be a common and serious side effect with Aimovig and may lead to hospitalization or the need for surgery.
• Aimovig can also cause serious allergies, high blood pressure or worsening of high blood pressure, and cramps and muscle spasms.
• Besides constipation, other common side effects with Aimovig include injection site reactions, that can lead to pain, redness, or swelling.

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)

Bottom Line

• Hair loss was reported as a side effect with Aimovig after it was approved, but it is not known if the drug caused the hair loss or how many people this may affect. CGRP monoclonal antibody inhibitors like Aimovig are increasingly being associated with hair loss.
• If you have experienced hair thinning or hair loss (alopecia), contact your health care provider. Hair loss can be a side effect of other medications or from certain medical conditions.
• Aimovig can also cause other side effects, such as allergies or constipation, which can be serious. New occurrences of high blood pressure, worsening of high blood pressure, and cramps and muscle spasms have also been reported.

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.