Nurtec ODT is now Available for the Acute Treatment of Acute Migraine

Nurtec ODT, rimegepant orally disintegrating tablet, is now available for the acute treatment of acute migraine with or without aura in adults. Nurtec is one of two oral medications in a newer class of drugs to treat migraines, Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) Receptor Antagonist. Other medications in this drug class include an oral tablet for acute treatment (Ubrelvy) and several injections for migraine prevention (Aimovig, Ajovy, Emgality) as well as an IV formulation (Vyepti).  Nurtec works by blocking receptors of calcitonin gene-related peptide which is a vasodilator and pain sensitizer that can spike during migraine attacks.

Nurtec is the first orally disintegrating CGRP Receptor Antagonist. This medication can be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve rather than swallowing. Nurtec is available in a 75mg tablet and is taken once in 24-hour period at the first signs of a migraine. The cost of Nuretc and other CGRP are much higher than more traditional treatments for acute migraine such as analgesics (naproxen, ibuprofen) or triptans (sumatriptan, naratriptan). Due to the cost, which is upwards of $127 (AWP) per tablet, less costly therapies should be tried first. Nurtec and other CGRP Receptor Antagonists should be reserved for those patients who have failed previous therapies or cannot tolerate their adverse effects. Common side effects of Nurtec include nausea and hypersensitivity.