Those who know migraines know the pain of a severe headache that feels like your head is about to split open... Only one side of your head hurts, sometimes you can't even look at the light, and you can't even vomit. So at times like this, a new medication called Ubrogepant helps reduce that pain as soon as it starts. Today, let's talk about what you need to know about this medication.
What is this medicine called Ubrogepant?
Simply put, Ubrogepant is a medication that is given to relieve the pain of a migraine headache after it has started. It is most commonly available under the brand name Ubrelvy.
The important thing is, this is not a migraine prevention medication . That is, it is not meant to be taken before a migraine attack. It is used to control the pain after the headache has started.
Some people experience an 'aura' before a migraine. Think of it this way: an 'aura' is a strange warning sign that you feel when a migraine is about to start. Some people see colored streaks or lights in front of their eyes, or feel like their limbs are going numb. So, this medicine is used for migraines that come with an aura, as well as migraines that come without an aura.
What should you tell your doctor before taking this medicine?
It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition before prescribing Ubrogepant. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor about them.
- Kidney disease: If you have any problems with your kidneys.
- Liver disease: If there are problems with liver function.
- Allergies: If you have an allergy to Ubrogepant, any other medicine, food, or dye.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, or are expecting a baby soon.
- Breastfeeding: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding your child.
Do not hide this information from your doctor, as this information is very important in deciding whether this medication is right for you or not, and what dosage to give.
How should I use the medicine?
This medicine should be used exactly as your doctor advises.
- Swallow the pill with a glass of water.
- You can take it before or after meals, but if you experience stomach upset, it's best to take it with food.
- Most importantly: This is not a daily medication. It should only be used when a migraine occurs. Do not take more than the doctor has prescribed.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Is it okay to share this medicine with others?
Absolutely not. This medicine has been prescribed for you only. The doctor will prescribe it based on your medical condition. Therefore, never give this medicine to others.
Other medications that should not be used with this medicine
Ubrogepant is a medication that can interact with some other medications, so it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
Be especially careful with the medications in the table below.
| Drug category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Drugs that should never be taken with Ubrogepant | |
| Some medications for fungal infections | `itraconazole`, `ketoconazole`, `posaconazole`, `voriconazole` |
| Some antiviral drugs for HIV | `ritonavir`, `cobicistat`, `indinavir` and more |
| Some antibiotics | `clarithromycin`, `telithromycin` |
| Other medicines and foods | `nefazodone`, `mifepristone`, and grapefruit |
| Drugs that may interact with Ubrogepant and should be discussed with your doctor | |
| Some medications for epilepsy | `phenobarbital`, `phenytoin` |
| Medications for heart disease and high blood pressure | `carvedilol`, `verapamil`, `quinidine` |
| Other antibiotics and antifungals | ``ciprofloxacin'', ``fluconazole'' |
| Other medications | `cyclosporine`, `St. John's wort` (herbal extract) |
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about any medications you are taking.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Ubrogepant can cause side effects in some people, although not everybody gets them.
| Side effect | What to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions - Skin irritation, itching - Swelling of the face, lips, tongue - Difficulty breathing | Stop the medication immediately and go to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU). This is an emergency. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to your doctor if they persist or are bothersome: | |
| Drowsiness, fatigue | Avoid dangerous activities such as driving or operating machinery until you know how you react to this medicine. |
| Dry mouth | Chewing sugar-free gum and drinking plenty of water can help. |
| Nausea (feeling sick) | Eating a simple diet and avoiding spicy foods may help. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
How should you store your medicine?
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius). Keep away from excessive heat and moisture.
- Discard expired medication without using it.
Take-Home Message
- Ubrogepant is a medication that relieves pain after a migraine has occurred, not a medication that prevents migraines.
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all medications you are taking.
- Some medications may interact with this medication, so do not take other medications without consulting your doctor. Especially do not drink grapefruit juice.
- If you experience allergic symptoms such as facial swelling and skin rashes, it is an emergency. Go to a hospital immediately.
- This is not a daily medication. When a migraine occurs, use it only as directed by your doctor.
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