What Nurtec ODT Is Used For: Treating and Preventing Migraine

Understanding How Nurtec ODT Can Help With Migraine Treatment and Prevention

For the nearly 40 million people in the U.S. who suffer from migraine, finding an effective treatment option brings tremendous hope. The recently approved medication Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) has demonstrated efficacy both for migraine attack treatment and prevention, offering a promising option. But what exactly is Nurtec ODT and how can it help?

What is Nurtec ODT?

Nurtec ODT is an orally disintegrating tablet, meaning it dissolves on the tongue without the need to swallow a pill. It contains the active drug rimegepant, which belongs to a class of medications called CGRP receptor antagonists.

CGRP stands for calcitonin gene-related peptide, a protein involved in initiating migraine attacks and facilitating inflammation and pain transmission. By blocking CGRP receptors, rimegepant stops this process to suppress migraine symptoms.

Nurtec ODT Mechanism of Action for Treating and Preventing Migraine

During a migraine attack, increased CGRP levels activate receptors on nerves and blood vessels, contributing to pain signaling and inflammation. This exacerbates migraine symptoms like headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light/sound.

As a CGRP receptor antagonist, Nurtec ODT works by binding to these same receptors to block the effects of CGRP. This inhibits the pain signals and inflammatory response, effectively stopping a migraine attack in its tracks and providing rapid relief.

In addition, regular use of Nurtec ODT every other day can prevent migraines before they even start. By maintaining consistent blockade of CGRP receptors, rimegepant prevents minor triggers from initiating the cascade of inflammation and dysfunction that leads to full-blown attacks.

Nurtec ODT Benefits and Effectiveness

In clinical trials, Nurtec ODT demonstrated significant benefits for migraine, including:

• Rapid, sustained headache relief - More than 60% of patients achieved pain freedom 2 hours post-dose.
• Reduced symptom recurrence - Only 27% experienced their headache returning 24 hours later.
• Prevention of future attacks - Regular use resulted in 3-4 fewer monthly migraine days for most patients.
• Well tolerated - Adverse reaction rates were similar to placebo, mainly consisting of nausea.

Plus, Nurtec ODT starts working very quickly. Patients can take a dose when migraine symptoms first appear to help stop the attack from progressing and provide fast relief.

How to Take Nurtec ODT for Treating or Preventing Migraines

The recommended Nurtec ODT dosage depends on whether you're using it to treat acute migraine attacks or help prevent future occurrences:

Taking Nurtec ODT to Treat Migraine Attacks

• Take 1 tablet (75 mg) as soon as possible after the start of migraine pain.
• Can be repeated once 24 hours later if migraine returns or pain continues.
• Effectively treats migraine with or without aura.
• Can be taken with other rescue medications like NSAIDs if needed.

Using Nurtec ODT to Prevent Migraines

• Take 1 tablet every other day to maintain CGRP blockade.
• Helps reduce migraine day frequency and severity long-term.
• Continue taking regularly unless advised by your doctor.

Nurtec ODT should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. It's orally disintegrating, so you can take it without liquids by placing on top of your tongue where it will dissolve and then swallow.

Who Can Take Nurtec ODT for Migraine Treatment or Prevention?

Nurtec ODT is FDA approved for treating and preventing episodic or chronic migraine in adults. It offers similar effectiveness across diverse patient demographics in clinical trials.

However, there are a few contraindications to taking Nurtec ODT:

• History of hypersensitivity to rimegepant, Nurtec ODT ingredients, or other CGRP antagonists
• Severe liver impairment
• Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole

Talk to your doctor first before taking Nurtec ODT if you have any medical conditions or take other medications to ensure safety and appropriateness.

Nurtec ODT and Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

At this time there is limited data on using Nurtec ODT while pregnant or breastfeeding. Animal studies showed no adverse effects; however, the potential risks to a human fetus or infant are still unknown.

Discuss with your OB-GYN whether Nurtec ODT is right for you if you are currently or planning to become pregnant or nurse your child. They can help assess benefits vs potential risks.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations With Nurtec ODT

Clinical trials demonstrated Nurtec ODT has a favorable safety profile. Side effect rates were similar to placebo, with most being mild and temporary.

Common Nurtec ODT Side Effects

The most frequent side effects occurring in at least 2% of Nurtec ODT patients include:

• Nausea
• Stomach pain/indigestion
• Tiredness

These reactions tended to resolve on their own within a day or two. Taking Nurtec ODT with food may help minimize nausea.

Severe Side Effects and Allergic Reactions

In rare cases, patients may experience serious hypersensitivity reactions to Nurtec ODT ingredients. Seek immediate medical care if you develop signs of angioedema, throat swelling, trouble breathing, or anaphylaxis after taking Nurtec ODT.

Drug Interactions

A few important medication interactions to be aware of with Nurtec ODT include:

• CYP3A4 inhibitors like antifungals can increase Nurtec ODT levels
• CYP3A4 inducers like carbamazepine may reduce efficacy
• Other CGRP antagonists could increase side effects if taken together

Always let your doctor know about any other medications, herbals supplements, or over-the-counter drugs you take to screen for potentially dangerous interactions with Nurtec ODT.

What is Nurtec ODT Used For? Recap of Key Points

In summary, the key things to understand about what Nurtec ODT is used for include:

• Oral disintegrating tablet containing the CGRP receptor antagonist rimegepant
• Approved for treating acute migraine as well as preventing episodic and chronic migraine
• Works by blocking CGRP pathways involved in migraine attacks
• Provides rapid, sustained headache relief in just 2 hours post-dose
• Also reduces recurrence of symptoms and monthly migraine day frequency with regular use
• Take at first sign of migraine pain for attack treatment, or every other day for preventive effects
• Well tolerated with mild temporary side effects in most patients

As the first drug approved for both treating and preventing migraine, Nurtec ODT represents an exciting innovation that can improve quality of life for millions impacted by these debilitating headaches. Understanding how Nurtec ODT works and implementing it as part of an overall migraine management plan with your doctors input can help gain control over symptoms.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.