How does Qulipta work?
Qulipta works by blocking a key protein in your body called calcitonin-related gene peptide, or CGRP, to help prevent migraine headaches and the transmission of pain. Qulipta belongs to the gepant class of CGRP receptor antagonists and is given orally once per day for episodic or chronic migraines.
What is Qulipta’s mechanism of action (MOA)?
Qulipta belongs to the class of drugs known as calcitonin-related gene peptide (CGRP) antagonists which means it blocks the CGRP receptor in the body. CGRP is a protein made naturally in the body. It’s found in the sensory nerves of the head and neck and causes blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to inflammation and migraine pain.
Research suggests there may be a connection between CGRP, CGRP receptors, and migraine headaches. When CGRP binds to CGRP receptors, it causes pain, inflammation, and vasodilation. By blocking the CGRP receptor, Qulipta helps to prevent the pain involved in a migraine. The exact mechanism that causes a migraine is still under study, but CGRP is known to play a role.
Qulipta was specifically designed to prevent migraine headaches and is not used to treat other medical conditions, like some older migraine therapies.
What is Qulipta used for?
Qulipta (atogepant), also known as a gepant, is a prescription oral tablet taken once daily for the preventive treatment of episodic and chronic migraine headaches. People who have episodic migraines typically have 14 or fewer migraine days per month. Chronic migraine is defined as 15 or more headache days per month, each lasting 4 or more hours.
A migraine headache is usually accompanied by severe, throbbing headaches (sometimes on just one side of the head), nausea and vomiting, or sensitivity to light, sound or touch. A migraine attack can last from 4 hours to 3 days in length. Qulipta can help to lower the frequency and severity of migraine headaches
Preventive migraine treatment may be recommended for people who have frequent, long-lasting, or very severe migraines. Qulipta is not used to treat a migraine headache that has already started.
This is not all the information you need to know about Qulipta (atogepant) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
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References
- Qulipta prescribing information. 6/2023. AbbVie Inc. North Chicago, Illinois. Accessed Jan 20, 2025 at https://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/QULIPTA_pi.pdf
- Edvinsson L. The Trigeminovascular Pathway: Role of CGRP and CGRP Receptors in Migraine. Headache. 2017 May;57 Suppl 2:47-55. doi: 10.1111/head.13081. PMID: 28485848.
- Edvinsson L, Haanes KA, Warfvinge K, et al. CGRP as the target of new migraine therapies - successful translation from bench to clinic. Nat Rev Neurol. 2018 Jun;14(6):338-350. doi: 10.1038/s41582-018-0003-1
Read next
How long does Qulipta take to work?
Qulipta can begin working on the first day of treatment to help prevent your episodic migraine headaches. Researchers observed that 88% (185 / 211) patients did not have a migraine the day after taking a Qulipta 60 mg dose, compared to 75% (151 / 202) taking an inactive placebo pill. Continue reading
When is the best time of the day to take Qulipta?
Take your prescribed dose each day at about the same time, with or without food. Some people feel tired or sleepy when taking Qulipta. If this occurs, ask your healthcare provider if you can take your dose at bedtime. If you feel nauseous, take your daily dose at mealtime. Continue reading
Does Qulipta (atogepant) cause hair loss?
No, hair loss is not a reported side effect of Qulipta from clinical trials and is not in the package insert. Reports suggest that alopecia (hair loss) is an emerging side effect with certain CGRP inhibitor migraine medicines, although larger, more adequately controlled studies are needed. Continue reading
See also:
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Drug information
- Qulipta Information for Consumers
- Qulipta prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Qulipta (detailed)
- Qulipta user reviews (184)
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