What is the mechanism of action for Nurtec ODT?

Nurtec ODT works by blocking activation of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) to help treat and prevent migraine headaches. CGRP is a protein that attaches to receptors found in the brain and triggers a migraine attack. Levels of CGRP increase during a migraine and play a role in pain transmission.

Specifically, Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) is a CGRP receptor antagonist (also called a gepant), an oral small molecule drug. You can take it by mouth, as it rapidly dissolves on or under your tongue and you don't need to take it with water. It crosses into the brain to block the CGRP receptor and works quickly for both treatment and prevention of migraine headaches.

Blocking CGRP has been shown in studies to reduce migraine pain, lower inflammation in blood vessels and reduce the frequency of migraine headaches.

Nurtec ODT (orally disintegrating tablets) is a prescription medicine used to treat migraine headaches in adults. It is for the acute (immediate) treatment of migraine attacks (with or without aura) and for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine. It is not known if Nurtec ODT is safe and effective in children.

When can I take Nurtec ODT?

When used for treatment, Nurtec ODT can be taken as soon as a migraine attack occurs to help stop pain and other symptoms like nausea and light or sound sensitivity. Nurtec ODT can be taken up to once daily. The maximum dose in a 24-hour period is 75 mg.

It can also be taken every other day to help prevent migraine attacks.

It is not known if it is safe to take more than 18 doses of Nurtec ODT in a 30-day period.

Certain drugs interact with Nurtec ODT that may affect if you can take this medicine or may change how often you can take it. Drugs that are CYP3A4 Inhibitors or inducers, and potent inhibitors of P-gp can lead to significant drug interactions. Talk to your healthcare provider and have them check for drug interactions when taking other medications

Take Nurtec ODT exactly how your healthcare provider tells you to take it.

Related: Drug Interactions with Nurtec ODT

Related questions

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How fast does it work?

In studies for migraine treatment, most people had freedom from pain and were functioning normally within 2 hours when compared to a placebo (inactive) pill.

Studies have shown that when Nurtec ODT is taken every other day for migraine prevention, people will experience 4.2 fewer monthly migraine days in weeks 9 to 12 (compared to 3.5 fewer monthly migraine days in weeks 9 to 12 in those taking a placebo).

Although Nurtec ODT is fast-acting, you and your doctor may decide you need to take this medicine over the long-term, for either migraine treatment or prevention.

This is not all the information you need to know about Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) 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.