Does Emgality cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not listed as a side effect in the product information for Emgality (galcanezumab) and phase 3 studies reported that there was no difference in the amount of weight gained between people taking Emgality and those assigned placebo (an inactive treatment).

Anecdotally, however, some people have reported gaining weight, with blog sites reporting a rapid weight gain of up to 10 to 14 pounds (4.5kg to 6.35kg), which is inconsistent with the product information. Although it is hard to determine if this weight gain was due to the drug or some other lifestyle factor, for some this weight gain was in the absence of other medication, dietary, or activity level changes.

Instances of weight gain may also occur with other new CGRP inhibitors such as Ajovy as well, even though weight gain is not listed as a side effect of these medications in their product information

What are the common side effects of Emgality?

The most common side effect reported with Emgality in clinical trials was injection site reactions. These occurred in 18% of people and included symptoms such as pain, redness, swelling, or itching around the injection site. Other side effects reported in 1% to 10% of people include:

• Constipation
• Hives (urticaria) or a rash
• Skin itch
• Vertigo or dizziness.

Other gastrointestinal effects (such as bloating), anti-drug antibodies, and hypersensitivity reactions have also been reported.