Your session is about to expire
Qulipta vs Ubrelvy
Introduction
For patients dealing with migraines, an agonizing neurological condition that frequently presents as severe headaches and a host of other debilitating symptoms, there are specific drugs available to address these issues. Qulipta and Ubrelvy are two such medications prescribed for the acute treatment of migraines in adults. These drugs each target different receptors within the brain but both aim at alleviating migraine pain and associated symptoms. Qulipta is classified as a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist, blocking CGRP proteins which play a crucial role in triggering migraines. On the other hand, Ubrelvy belongs to the class known as "gepants" - it works by blocking CGRP from binding to its receptors thus preventing or reducing the pain signals transmitted during a migraine episode.
Qulipta vs Ubrelvy Side By Side
| Attribute | Qulipta | Ubrelvy |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Qulipta | Ubrelvy |
| Contraindications | Should not be taken with SSRIs or SNRIs due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Dosage adjustments may be needed for those with liver disease or kidney problems. | Should not be taken with SSRIs or SNRIs due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Consultation may be necessary for those with liver disease for potential dosage adjustments. |
| Cost | About $380 for 8 tablets (75 mg), approximately $47.50 per tablet, equating to roughly $1.57/day. | About $900-$950 for 10 tablets (50mg or 100mg), averaging at about $90–95 per tablet. |
| Generic Name | Atogepant | Ubrogepant |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Signs of a severe allergic reaction, changes in vision, fast or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, symptoms indicating changes in sodium levels, severe nervous system reactions. | Signs of an allergic reaction, unusual changes in mood and behavior, visual disturbances, rapid heartbeat, symptoms resembling a stroke, liver problems. |
| Severe Drug Interactions | SSRIs and SNRIs | SSRIs and SNRIs |
| Typical Dose | 50–75 mg/day | 50–100 mg as soon as migraine symptoms begin, not to exceed 200 mg in a 24-hour period. |
What is Qulipta?
Atogepant (the generic name for Qulipta) and Ubrogepant (generic name for Ubrelvy) are both medications within the class of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists, a novel development in treating migraines. Atogepant was first approved by the FDA in 2021. Qulipta works by blocking CGRP receptors which are known to play crucial roles in triggering migraine attacks, effectively reducing their frequency and severity. This medication is prescribed for preventive treatment of episodic migraines in adults.
Similarly, Ubrelvy also inhibits the activity of CGRP but it is designed to treat active migraine attacks with or without aura instead of preventing them. Both drugs have shown significant effectiveness compared to placebo groups; however, they exhibit different side effect profiles due to their usage differences – prevention versus acute treatment.
Qulipta's influence on CGRP receptors results in fewer gastrointestinal-related side effects than other preventatives that may affect multiple physiological systems beyond just migraine pathophysiology whereas Ubrelvy can cause nausea more frequently as it interferes with signaling during an active attack.
What conditions is Qulipta approved to treat?
Qulipta is approved for the treatment of:
- Acute migraines in adults, with or without aura
Ubrelvy, on the other hand, is also used to treat:
- Acute migraines in adults, with or without aura
How does Qulipta help with these illnesses?
Qulipta helps to manage migraines by blocking the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor, which is associated with migraine attacks. It does this by binding directly to the CGRP receptor, effectively preventing CGRP from triggering the onset of a migraine. CGRP is a neuropeptide that plays an important role in transmitting pain and causing inflammation in the nervous system, particularly during migraines. Individuals who frequently experience migraines often have relatively higher levels of CGRP. Therefore, by inhibiting its action, Qulipta can limit the painful effects of migraines and help patients manage their condition.
On the other hand, Ubrelvy also targets CGRP but functions differently than Qulipta - it doesn't prevent migraines but instead works once they have started to alleviate symptoms. The medication blocks CGRP after it has been released during a migraine attack to ease related symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.
What is Ubrelvy?
Ubrelvy is a brand name for ubrogepant, which is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist. This means it works by blocking the activity of CGRP, a molecule that plays a key role in triggering and maintaining migraines. Ubrelvy was first approved by the FDA in 2019 as an acute treatment for migraine with or without aura.
Unlike triptans, another common class of migraine medications, Ubrelvy does not constrict blood vessels to relieve headache pain. This unique mode of action may make it suitable for individuals who cannot use triptans due to cardiovascular conditions. The most common side effects are nausea and drowsiness; however, these are generally mild and transient.
The ability to block CGRP can be beneficial in treating migraines especially among patients who do not respond well or cannot tolerate other types of acute migraine treatments such as Qulipta.
What conditions is Ubrelvy approved to treat?
Ubrelvy is a medication that has received FDA approval for use in the treatment of:
- Acute migraine with or without aura in adults
- Migraine prevention and management
This makes it an important tool for those struggling with sudden, debilitating migraines.
How does Ubrelvy help with these illnesses?
Ubrelvy is a drug that acts on the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor in the brain, which plays crucial roles in modulating pain transmission and vascular tone. This receptor has been implicated in migraines, and thus blocking its action can help alleviate migraine symptoms. Ubrelvy works to prevent an ongoing migraine attack rather than preventing future ones, making it useful for acute treatment of migraines as they occur. Its effect on CGRP receptors may contribute to relief from the intense pain and associated symptoms of a migraine attack. Unlike Qulipta which is designed for preventive use once daily, Ubrelvy can be taken as needed when a migraine starts. Since it doesn't need to be taken regularly like preventative medications, it could be more suitable for those with less frequent or predictable migraines.
How effective are both Qulipta and Ubrelvy?
Both Qulipta (atogepant) and Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) are used in the management of migraines, albeit at different stages. Approved by the FDA in 2021 and 2019 respectively, these drugs are part of a new class called CGRP inhibitors that target a protein involved in triggering and sustaining migraines.
Qulipta is prescribed as a preventative measure for episodic migraine while Ubrelvy is approved for acute treatment during actual occurrences of migraine attacks. In clinical trials, both medications proved effective at their respective roles: Qulipta reduced monthly migraine days with minimal side effects while Ubrelvy relieved pain and other symptoms within two hours.
A meta-analysis published in 2021 found that preventative use of atogepant significantly reduces the average number of monthly migraine days compared to placebo. It's scheduled daily intake makes it ideal for patients who have frequent episodes or severe migraines affecting quality of life.
Ubrelvy on the other hand has been studied extensively since its introduction to market as an abortive therapy for acute migraine attacks. A review conducted in 2020 noted that ubrogepant was highly effective than placebo at reducing headache intensity from moderate/severe to mild/none within two hours after administration.
Each medication serves unique purposes depending on patient need - Qulipta may be more suitable for those needing a preventative option while Ubrelvy provides fast relief when required during active periods.
Find Top Clinical Trials
Choose from over 30,000 active clinical trials.
At what dose is Qulipta typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Qulipta for the acute treatment of migraine in adults range from 50–75 mg/day, depending upon the individual patient's need. Studies have shown that a single dose is effective in relieving symptoms in many individuals. If needed, a second dose can be taken at least two hours after the first one, but not more than 150mg should be taken within any 24 hour period. On the other hand, Ubrelvy is also used for acute treatment of migraines and comes with varying doses ranging from 50-100mg. The medication may be repeated once after two hours if necessary but total dosage should not exceed 200mg per day. For both medications, it's always important to take as directed by your healthcare provider.
At what dose is Ubrelvy typically prescribed?
The Ubrelvy treatment for migraine headaches is generally initiated with a dose of 50–100 mg as soon as symptoms of a migraine begin. If the headache does not resolve or returns after initial relief, an additional dose may be taken at least two hours after the first dose. The maximum dosage should not exceed 200 mg in a 24-hour period. It's important to note that response to treatment varies between individuals, and if there is no significant improvement following the initial doses, consultation with your healthcare provider might be necessary for further assessment and potential adjustment of your medication regimen.
What are the most common side effects for Qulipta?
Common side effects of Qulipta include:
- Nausea
- Fatigue (general weakness and tiredness)
- Dizziness
- Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)
- Dry mouth
On the other hand, Ubrelvy's most common side effects are:
- Nausea
- Sleepiness/drowsiness
- Dry mouth
Each individual may react differently to these medications. It is essential to understand that while these are some of the more common side effects, they do not occur in everyone who takes either drug. If you experience any severe or persistent symptoms while taking one of these medications, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Qulipta?
In rare cases, Qulipta can cause potentially serious side effects, which include:
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing or swallowing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat; rash, itching or hives on the skin.
- Changes in vision such as blurred vision or seeing halos around lights
- Fast or irregular heartbeat and palpitations
- Shortness of breath and dizziness that might make you feel like you could pass out
- Symptoms indicating changes in sodium levels: headache, confusion, slurred speech, severe weakness and muscle cramps
Severe nervous system reactions are also possible but extremely rare. These would present as:
- High fever with stiff muscles
- Confusion
- Tremors
- Feeling like passing out
Please be aware that if any of these symptoms occur after taking Qulipta medication it's important to get immediate medical attention.
What are the most common side effects for Ubrelvy?
Ubrelvy, a medication used to treat migraines, can potentially lead to the following side effects:
- Feelings of nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue or sleepiness
- Sensations of tingling or numbness in certain parts of the body. While these side effects are typically mild and temporary, it's important for users to be aware that Ubrelvy may also cause more serious issues such as allergic reactions characterized by difficulty breathing, swelling on face/lips/tongue/throat regions and severe dizziness. As with any new medication regime, it is always advisable to discuss potential risks versus benefits with your healthcare provider.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Ubrelvy?
Ubrelvy, although generally well-tolerated, can occasionally result in serious side effects. It's essential that you seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, severe itching or a rash; fever or swollen glands; difficulty breathing; swelling in your face or throat
- Unusual changes in mood and behavior
- Visual disturbances including blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling
- Rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations
- Symptoms resembling a stroke: sudden numbness on one side of the body and slurred speech
- Liver problems with symptoms like nausea, upper stomach pain, tiredness, loss of appetite etc.
These are not common but potentially severe reactions to Ubrelvy. Remember to always consult your healthcare provider when starting any new medication regimen.
Contraindications for Qulipta and Ubrelvy?
Both Qulipta and Ubrelvy, like many other migraine medications, can cause certain side effects in some individuals. If you notice any severe or unusual symptoms after taking these drugs, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Qulipta nor Ubrelvy should be taken if you are currently using or have recently used certain types of antidepressants known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). The reason is that combining these medications can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. Always tell your doctor about any medication you're taking; SSRIs and SNRIs will require at least two weeks to clear from the system to prevent harmful interactions with Qulipta and Ubrelvy.
In addition, those with liver disease or kidney problems may need dosage adjustments for both medicines. As always, it's essential that your healthcare provider is aware of all health conditions you have before starting treatment with either Qulipta or Ubrelvy.
How much do Qulipta and Ubrelvy cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
-
The price for 8 tablets of Qulipta (75 mg) is about $380, which works out to approximately $47.50 per tablet and since it's a once monthly medication, that equates to roughly $1.57/day.
-
The price for 10 tablets of Ubrelvy (50mg or 100mg) is around $900-$950, averaging at about $90–95 per tablet. As this drug is taken as needed rather than regularly, exact daily costs will vary depending on your frequency of migraines.
Thus, if you experience frequent migraines requiring multiple doses of Ubrelvy per month, then brand-name Qulipta could be less expensive on a per-day treatment basis due to its once-monthly dosage schedule. Please note that cost should not be a primary consideration in determining which of these drugs is right for you.
As both medications are relatively new in the migraine treatment field as they have been recently approved by FDA there aren't generic versions available yet so prices can't be compared with their lower-cost counterparts like we did with Prozac (fluoxetine) and Wellbutrin(bupropion).
Popularity of Qulipta and Ubrelvy
Atogepant, marketed under the brand name Qulipta, is a newly approved medication for preventive treatment of migraine in adults. As it was only approved by the FDA in 2021, there are not yet comprehensive prescription numbers available.
Ubrogepant, sold under the brand name Ubrelvy, has been prescribed as an acute (on-demand) treatment for migraines since its approval by the FDA at the end of 2019. In 2020 alone, it was estimated to have been prescribed to about 100 thousand people in US. Its use seems likely to increase given that it's one of few medications specifically designed and approved for on-demand migraine relief without known cardiovascular risks.
Both these drugs belong to a new class of treatments called CGRP inhibitors which target calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a molecule that is elevated during a migraine attack and thought to play a key role in causing symptoms.
Conclusion
Both Qulipta (atogepant) and Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) are used in the management of migraines, with evidence from clinical trials indicating their efficacy being superior to placebo treatments. They both belong to a newer class of drugs known as CGRP inhibitors, which target a protein involved in triggering migraines. While they have similar mechanisms of action, there are some key differences that may guide prescribing decisions.
Qulipta is designed for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults, whereas Ubrelvy is utilized for acute treatment once a migraine has started. Therefore, Qulipta tends to be prescribed as an ongoing daily medication aimed at reducing frequency and severity of attacks while Ubrelvy would usually be considered on an as-needed basis when a migraine attack occurs.
Neither drug currently has generic versions available due to their relative newness on the market which might impact cost considerations especially for patients who must pay out-of-pocket.
In terms of tolerability profiles, both drugs seem generally well-tolerated but carry potential side effects such as nausea and constipation; however it's important to note that every patient responds differently and close monitoring by healthcare providers is necessary.
It's critical that patients communicate any changes or worsening symptoms immediately with medical professionals particularly if experiencing severe headaches not typical for them or accompanied by other serious conditions like high blood pressure.