You may have experienced migraines, which are throbbing headaches that can be so debilitating that you can't even do your daily tasks. Sometimes you can't look at a light, can't hear a sound, and feel nauseous. Or you may be suffering from cluster headaches, which are severe headaches that occur around the eyes at the same time of day. Only those who have experienced them know how difficult it is to live with such severe headaches. So, today we are talking about a new, specialized drug that can help control these conditions. That is Galcanezumab.
What is Galcanezumab (Emgality)?
Simply put, Galcanezumab is a new injectable medication used to prevent migraines and treat cluster headaches. You may have heard of it under the brand name Emgality.
This is not like a regular painkiller. This is a drug that belongs to a special class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies . To put it simply, this is a protein that is specially designed in a laboratory, similar to a protein in our body's own defense system. The special thing about this vaccine is that it targets only a chemical called Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) , which is the main cause of migraines and cluster headaches. When this vaccine enters the body, it binds to that chemical called CGRP and stops it from working. In other words, it stops the 'signal' that causes headaches in the middle. As a result, the headaches are reduced or completely gone.
Keep in mind that this is not a painkiller to take after a headache, but a treatment used to prevent headaches.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before giving you this medicine, the doctor will ask you a few questions. It is very important that you explain these things clearly.
- Allergies: If you have any allergies, not only to Galcanezumab, but also to any other medicine, food, or dye, be sure to tell us about it.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, it is very important to tell your doctor. This is because the effects of these new medications on the baby during pregnancy have not yet been fully studied. Therefore, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking any risks.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, you should also mention this. Discuss with your doctor whether the ingredients in the medicine pass to your baby through breast milk.
How to use the medicine?
This is an injection under the skin. It usually comes in a form that you can inject yourself at home. But don't worry, your doctor or a qualified nurse will first show you exactly how to prepare and inject this vaccine.
This vaccine is usually injected into the thigh, abdomen (excluding the area around the navel), or the back of the upper arm.
Important things to remember
- Follow the instructions exactly: Take the medicine at regular intervals , exactly as your doctor tells you. Do not take more than the prescribed amount or take it more often.
- Dispose of needles safely: This is very important . Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They can be dangerous to the person taking out the waste, your family, and your pets. There is a special container for these (sharps container). If you don't have one, you can get one from your doctor or hospital.
- If giving to children: If using this medicine on children, you should talk to a pediatrician and follow his or her instructions.
What do you do if you miss a medication appointment?
Please don't worry if you miss a dose. Take the dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose when you remember (for example, within a day or two), skip the missed dose and take the next dose on the scheduled day. Never take a double dose.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. But not everyone does. Let's see what they are.
| Type of side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately |
|
| Common, less serious side effects (If these persist or are bothersome, tell your doctor .) |
|
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, contact your doctor immediately for advice.
Are there any problems with other medications?
As far as has been discovered, there have been no reports of Galcanezumab causing major interactions with other medications.
However, it is safest to tell your doctor about everything you are taking . This means giving your doctor a list of all the other medications, vitamins, herbs, and supplements you are taking. Also, tell them if you smoke or drink alcohol.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
How to store the medicine?
When you receive this medicine, you will receive instructions on how to store it.
- These should usually be stored in the fridge . But do not store them in the freezer. Do not use the medicine if it is frozen.
- Do not leave it where children can get hold of it.
- Never use expired medicine. Check the expiration date on the label and safely dispose of any medicine that has passed that date.
This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to anyone else who has the same symptoms as you.
Take-Home Message
- Galcanezumab (Emgality) is a specific injection given to prevent migraines and cluster headaches, not a general painkiller.
- Before using this medicine, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, allergies, and other medications you are taking.
- Follow the instructions exactly when learning how to inject yourself. It may be scary at first, but it will be easy once you get used to it.
- Place used needles and syringes in a special sharps container and dispose of them safely.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing), seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any questions about this medicine, don't keep it to yourself, but ask your doctor.
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