Qulipta (Atogepant)
Overview:
Qulipta (atogepant), is a prescription drug used for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults. This group of medications is called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists. Acting mainly on the CGRP receptor, Qulipta prevents migraine attacks from happening in the first place, offering a daily oral medication for those patients who repeatedly undergo such bouts of migraines.
Clinical Uses
Primary Uses:
Qulipta is used primarily for the preventive treatment of migraine. It is meant for the treatment of patients suffering from episodic migraine, that is, less than 15 headache days per month. The drug can reduce both the frequency and the severity of attacks over a period.
By blocking the CGRP receptor pathway, which is closely related to migraine pain, Qulipta improves the lifestyle of patients affected by the incessant interruption of headaches. The drug does not treat acute migraine attacks; instead, it is poetically described as a med that is taken regularly to avoid the occurrence of migraine headaches.
Off-Label Uses:
Qulipta is not commonly prescribed for off-label uses as of now. Some studies are looking into the possibility of Qulipta for treating chronic migraines (15 or more headache days per month) and other CGRP-related neurological disorders, but such uses are still investigational.
Mechanisms of Action:
Qulipta is part of a newer class of drugs that target CGRP receptors. CGRP is a neuropeptide involved in the pathophysiology of migraines, as well as in pain transmission and inflammation of the brain's blood vessels. Qulipta is said to block the CGRP receptor so that during a migraine attack, it cannot be activated. This inhibition stops the orderly sequence of steps involved in a migraine, and its occurrence becomes less likely.
Dosing and Administration
Recommended Dosing:
The usual dose of Qulipta will depend on the needs of the patient and other drugs that are taken together. Usually prescribed doses include 10 mg, 30 mg, or 60 mg by mouth one time in a day. The exact dose will be determined by the prescribing physician based on the individual condition, tolerance, and associated medical issues.
Administration:
Once daily orally, Qulipta can be taken either with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with water; do not crush or chew. Patients are advised to take it every day at the same time to uphold consistent body levels. If a dose was missed, it could be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is right before the time for the next dose.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Qulipta may bring constipation, nausea, tiredness, or loss of appetite in patients. These are mild side effects and are likely to resolve on their own. Drinking sufficient fluids and keeping a light diet will ease the discomfort.
Serious Side Effects:
Though rare, some patients may manifest serious reactions, such as alterations in liver function tests or an allergic-type reaction (swelling, rash, difficulty in breathing). The patient should seek immediate medical care in the event of such occurrences. Periodic monitoring may be indicated among those on long-term therapy, particularly for those with liver impairment.
Warnings and Precautions
Qulipta is not approved for use in treating acute migraine attacks. Qulipta should not be prescribed to treat headaches once they have begun. Rarely, liver damage has been reported, particularly for patients who are already impaired or in combination with other hepatotoxic drugs.
Before being initiated on Qulipta, these patients should inform their health care provider of any history of liver disease, gastrointestinal problems, or other chronic conditions. This medication is not recommended for use in anyone under 18 or during pregnancy unless instructed by a doctor. Caution should be exercised when consuming alcohol and medications that may also put a strain on the liver while taking Qulipta.
Drug Interactions
Medications to Avoid:
Qulipta may interact with medications that affect liver enzymes (especially CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers). Such medications might need to be reduced in dosage or avoided together with Qulipta (e.g., ketoconazole or rifampin). Patients are encouraged to inform their health professional about all medications and supplements they are taking.
Alcohol and Qulipta:
Moderate alcohol consumption does not seem to pose any significant interaction with Qulipta, although excessive intake might increase the risk for attaining liver-related side effects. Patients with a known history of liver problems should refrain from taking alcohol altogether while on this medication.
Missed Doses and Overdose Handling
Missed Dose:
If a dose of Qulipta is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, the missed dose will be skipped if it is near the time of the next scheduled dose. Never double the dose to make up for a missed tablet.
Overdose:
Overdose of Qulipta may lead to worsening of side effects like nausea, fatigue, and liver enzyme elevation. If this happens, medical assistance should be sought immediately. Supportive management may be called for, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
Storage and Disposal
Storage Directions:
Qulipta should be stored at room temperature away from direct heat and moisture. Do not store tablets in a bathroom. Keep in original packages with the lid tightly shut and out of reach of children or pets.
Disposal Directions:
Unused and expired Qulipta should be disposed of according to state or FDA guidelines. Patients may use drug take-back programs or mix tablets with an undesirable material (like used coffee grounds) and put them in a sealed bag before throwing them away in household trash.
FAQs:
What are the available dosage forms of Qulipta?
Quilpta is available in 10 mg, 30 mg, and 60 mg tablets. Your special needs specify the dosage and should be determined only by your physician.
How to Order Qulipta?
Qulipta can only be ordered through a licensed pharmacy such as Rapid RX and with a valid prescription.
How should I store Qulipta?
Store Qulipta in a cool place within the confines of room temperature. Avoid sun exposure and excessive humidity.
What are the Qulipta dosages?
Formulations of Qulipta include the following: 10mg, 30mg, and 60 mg tablets. The dosage is based on specific needs and is intended to be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Can I take Qulipta with food?
Yes. Qulipta can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce mild nausea if it occurs.
When can Qulipta start showing its effect?
Many patients would first notice a decline in the frequency of migraines within the first few weeks of treatment. The responses can be fully appreciated from 8-12 weeks of continuous use.
Does Qulipta make you lose weight?
Some people claim to experience decreased appetite while taking this medication, which could potentially lead to minor weight loss, but this effect is not universal and should be monitored in case it becomes significant.
What Drugs Should One Avoid on Qulipta?
Excessive intake of alcohol is to be avoided, as well as drugs metabolized through the liver without the advice of your doctor. It is essential to inform your provider of all drugs as well as supplements you are using.
What is the difference between Qulipta and other migraine medicines?
Qulipta is unique in the sense that it is a daily oral preventive treatment targeting the CGRP receptor; unlike triptans or acute treatments, it is taken consistently to prevent migraines rather than affect them when they have already started.
Related Products
Complementary Medications:
The patients on Qulipta can also take some acute migraine treatments, such as sumatriptan or any NSAID medications. The use of these medications should be discussed with the physician.
Other Supplies:
Helpful tools include diaries for registering migraine events, cold therapy packs, eye masks, and aromatherapy diffusers for light-and-sound sensitivity during attacks.
Customer Reviews:
“I’ve been taking Qulipta for three months, and my migraine days have dropped from 10 a month to just 3. It’s given me a huge part of my life back.”
- Maya B., WebMD“Qulipta doesn’t make me drowsy like other meds I’ve tried. It fits easily into my daily routine, and I finally feel like I’m ahead of my migraines.”
- Justin R., Drugs.com“After trying multiple preventive treatments, Qulipta was the first one that made a noticeable difference. Side effects were mild and faded fast.”
- Leah M., Everyday Health“I experienced a bit of constipation at first, but staying hydrated helped. The tradeoff was worth it for fewer migraines.”
- Alex F., Healthgrades“My insurance covered it, and the copay card helped too. Worth asking your doctor about.”
- Nicole T., Mayo Clinic Reviews
