What is Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) for?

Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist indicated for the acute treatment of adults with either episodic or chronic migraine, with and without aura.^[1]

It is available as orally disintegrating tablets (ODT) containing 75 mg rimegepant.^[1] This is the first and only CGRP receptor antagonist that can be taken orally for the acute treatment of migraine attacks.^[2]

How does Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) work?

Rimegepant is a monoclonal antibody, a type of protein, that blocks the activity of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor. CGRP is a molecule that is involved in migraine attacks. When its levels go up, it triggers intense inflammation in the brain, causing migraine headaches.^[3] By blocking the CGRP receptor, rimegepant can relieve pain experienced during attacks.^[4]

Because it is an orally dissolvable tablet, Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) is taken up in the blood rapidly, and will reach its maximum effect in 1.5 hrs.^[1]

Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) offers an alternative to triptans, the most frequently prescribed migraine therapies, particularly for patients whose symptoms do not respond to triptans.^[2]

Where has Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) been approved?

Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) was approved for the acute treatment of migraine in adults by:

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA, on February 27, 2020.^[2]

Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) is the first CGRP receptor antagonist that can be taken orally.

Please note that this medicine may have also been approved in other regions than the ones we’ve listed. If you have a question about its approval in a specific country feel free to contact our support team.

How is Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) taken?

The standard dosage is:^[1]

One rimegepant 75 mg tablet taken orally, once every 24 hours.

Note: The safety of treating more than 15 migraines in a 30-day period has not yet been established.

Complete information about Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) dosage and administration can be found in the official prescribing information listed in our references section.^[1]

Note: Please consult with your treating doctor for personalised dosing and potential drug interactions.