Fremanezumab as Add-On Treatment for Patients Treated With Other Migraine Preventive Medicines

Efficacy and Safety of Anti-CGRP Monoclonal Antibodies in Prevention of Chronic Migraine: A Bayesian Network Meta-analysis

Due to the unmet needs in the management of migraine, a primary headache, and disabling disorder, the past decade has focused on developing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) as migraine prophylactic agents. The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of various anti-CGRP mAbs in the prevention of chronic migraine. Network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed using the Bayesian framework to estimate the efficacy and safety of mAbs after performing a literature search in PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane database, and International Clinical Trial Registry Platform (ICTRP). The outcomes calculated were in terms of mean difference (MD) or odds ratio (OR) with a 95% credible interval (95%CrI). Network graphs were constructed and node-split analysis was done to analyze the inconsistency. The NMA included a total of 10 clinical trials. Galacanezumab (120 mg) (MD: -2.7; 95%CrI: -4.8 to -0.83) was found to be better than other mAbs in terms of the difference in mean migraine days (MMD). Fremanezumab quarterly dose administration showed the best response (OR: 2.9; 95%CrI: 1.9 to 4.6) in terms of responder rate. Eptinezumab was found to be safer (OR: 0.88; 95%CrI: 0.61-1.3) as compared to other mAbs in terms of the rate of adverse events. Fremanezumab (quarterly) ranked better in terms of response rate, and eptinezumab was found to be the safest in the prophylactic management of migraine. Galacenequmab was better at reducing MMD. Further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term safety, efficacy, and use of mAbs in migraine patients.

IUPHAR review: Navigating the role of preclinical models in pain research

Chronic pain is a complex and challenging medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of chronic pain is a key goal of preclinical pain research so that more effective treatment strategies can be developed. In this review, we explore nociception, pain, and the multifaceted factors that lead to chronic pain by focusing on preclinical models. We provide a detailed look into inflammatory and neuropathic pain models and discuss the most used animal models for studying the mechanisms behind these conditions. Additionally, we emphasize the vital role of these preclinical models in developing new pain-relief drugs, focusing on biologics and the therapeutic potential of NMDA and cannabinoid receptor antagonists. We also discuss the challenges of TRPV1 modulation for pain treatment, the clinical failures of neurokinin (NK)- 1 receptor antagonists, and the partial success story of Ziconotide to provide valuable lessons for preclinical pain models. Finally, we highlight the overall success and limitations of current treatments for chronic pain while providing critical insights into the development of more effective therapies to alleviate the burden of chronic pain.

Monoclonal Antibodies for Chronic Pain Treatment: Present and Future

Chronic pain remains a major problem worldwide, despite the availability of various non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment options. Therefore, new analgesics with novel mechanisms of action are needed. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are directed against specific, targeted molecules involved in pain signaling and processing pathways that look to be very effective and promising as a novel therapy in pain management. Thus, there are mAbs against tumor necrosis factor (TNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), or interleukin-6 (IL-6), among others, which are already recommended in the treatment of chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis, chronic lower back pain, migraine, or rheumatoid arthritis that are under preclinical research. This narrative review summarizes the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the use of these agents in the treatment of chronic pain.

Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting CGRP: From Clinical Studies to Real-World Evidence-What Do We Know So Far?

Now more than ever is the time of monoclonal antibody use in neurology. In headaches, disease-specific and mechanism-based treatments existed only for symptomatic management of migraines (i.e., triptans), while the standard prophylactic anti-migraine treatments consist of non-specific and repurposed drugs that share limited safety profiles and high risk for interactions with other medications, resulting in rundown adherence rates. Recent advances in headache science have increased our understanding of the role of calcitonin gene relate peptide (CGRP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) pathways in cephalic pain neurotransmission and peripheral or central sensitization, leading to the development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) or small molecules targeting these neuropeptides or their receptors. Large scale randomized clinical trials confirmed that inhibition of the CGRP system attenuates migraine, while the PACAP mediated nociception is still under scientific and clinical investigation. In this review, we provide the latest clinical evidence for the use of anti-CGRP in migraine prevention with emphasis on efficacy and safety outcomes from Phase III and real-world studies.

Comprehensive management of adults with chronic migraine: Clinical practice guidelines in Mexico

Introduction:

Migraine is a polygenic multifactorial disorder with a neuronal initiation of a cascade of neurochemical processes leading to incapacitating headaches. Headaches are generally unilateral, throbbing, 4–72 h in duration, and associated with nausea, vomiting, photophobia, and sonophobia. Chronic migraine (CM) is the presence of a headache at least 15 days per month for ≥3 months and has a high global impact on health and economy, and therapeutic guidelines are lacking.

Methods:

Using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations system, we conducted a search in MEDLINE and Cochrane to investigate the current evidence and generate recommendations of clinical practice on the identification of risk factors and treatment of CM in adults.

Results:

We recommend avoiding overmedication of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); ergotamine; caffeine; opioids; barbiturates; and initiating individualized prophylactic treatment with topiramate eptinezumab, galcanezumab, erenumab, fremanezumab, or botulinum toxin. We highlight the necessity of managing comorbidities initially. In the acute management, we recommend NSAIDs, triptans, lasmiditan, and gepants alone or with metoclopramide if nausea or vomiting. Non-pharmacological measures include neurostimulation.

Conclusions:

We have identified the risk factors and treatments available for the management of CM based on a grading system, which facilitates selection for individualized management.

Scaling Approaches for Pediatric Dose Selection: The Fremanezumab (AJOVY®) Journey to Select a Phase 3 Dose Using Pharmacokinetic Data from a Phase 1 Study

Fremanezumab, a fully humanized IgG2Δa/kappa monoclonal antibody, selectively targets the calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) and prevents it from binding to the CGRP receptor. The safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and efficacy of fremanezumab for treating migraines administered as a once monthly 225 mg dose or a once quarterly 675 mg dose have been well characterized in adults. The fremanezumab exposure and body weight relationship supported the use of the approved 225 mg monthly adult dose for pediatric patients weighing ≥45 kg. In the pediatric Phase 3 program, a 120 mg dose for patients weighing <45 kg was determined using the results of an open-label study and a population PK modeling and simulation strategy. A thorough evaluation was conducted to further characterize the population PK of fremanezumab and assess the predictive performance of the adult population PK model when applied to the Phase 1 pediatric data, the predictive performance of alternative pediatric population PK models, and the predictive performance of the selected pediatric population PK model via a noncompartmental-based approach. This latter comparison to noncompartmental results provided additional evidence that the pediatric population PK model predicts the observed data well and supports the 120 mg monthly dose in patients weighing <45 kg.

Update on Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Antagonism in the Treatment of Migraine

The discovery of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and its role in migraine has promoted a new era in migraine treatment: CGRP antagonism. Two classes of medications are currently available: small molecules targeting the CGRP receptor and monoclonal antibodies targeting the CGRP receptor or CGRP ligand. The revolution of these medications is represented by blurring the borders between acute and preventive treatments, episodic and chronic migraine, naïve and refractory patients and even between migraine and other headache disorders.

Optimal treatment strategy of fremanezumab in migraine prevention: a systematic review with network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Identifying the optimal fremanezumab treatment strategy is crucial in treating patients with migraines. The optimal strategy was investigated by assessing the cumulative 50% reduction rate (50%CRR), cumulative 75% reduction rate (75%CRR), reduction in the number of migraine days, treatment-related adverse events, and serious adverse events in patients treated with fremanezumab 225 mg monthly (225 mg), 675 mg monthly (675 mg), 900 mg monthly (900 mg), a single high dose of 675 mg (S675mg), 675 mg at baseline with 225 mg monthly (675/225 mg), and placebo. Biomedical databases were searched for randomized controlled trials on this topic, and data were individually extracted. Risk ratios and mean differences were used to present the pooled results. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used to determine the effects of the medication strategies of fremanezumab. Five trials (n = 3404) were used to form a six-node network meta-analysis. All fremanezumab medication strategies displayed significantly higher cumulative 50% reduction rates than the placebo. The SUCRA revealed that treatment with 675 mg yielded the highest 50%CRR value (mean rank = 2.5). S675 mg was the only treatment with significantly higher 75%CRR reduction rate than placebo, whereas the SUCRA for 225 mg displayed the highest mean rank (2.2). Moreover, 225 mg (mean rank = 2.2) and S675 mg (mean rank = 2.2) presented lower probabilities of serious adverse events. Collectively, S675mg and 225 mg exhibited the optimal balance between efficacy and safety within three months. Long-term efficacy and safety remain unclear, and future studies should further evaluate the long-term outcomes.

An Evidence-Based Review of Fremanezumab for the Treatment of Migraine

Migraine headache is a common, chronic, debilitating disease with a complex etiology. Current therapy for migraine headache comprises either treatments targeting acute migraine pain or prophylactic therapy aimed at increasing the length of time between migraine episodes. Recent evidence suggests that calcium gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a critical component in the pathogenesis of migraines. Fremanezumab, a monoclonal antibody against CGRP, was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after multiple studies showed that it was well-tolerated, safe, and effective in the treatment of migraines. Further research is needed to elucidate the long-term effects of fremanezumab and CGRP-antagonists in general, and additional data is required in less healthy patients to estimate its effects in these populations and potentially increase the eligible group of recipients. This is a comprehensive review of the current literature on the efficacy and safety of fremanezumab for the treatment of chronic migraine. In this review we provide an update on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and current treatment of migraine, and summarize the evidence for fremanezumab as a treatment for migraine.

Dual Therapy With Anti-CGRP Monoclonal Antibodies and Botulinum Toxin for Migraine Prevention: Is There a Rationale?

OBJECTIVE

To narratively review the pathophysiological rationale of dual therapy with anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies and botulinum toxin type A in treatment-resistant chronic migraine prevention.

BACKGROUND

For the prevention of chronic migraine, several pharmacological therapies are available, including oral medications, botulinum toxin type A, and the newly approved monoclonal antibodies targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide or its receptor. However, monotherapy does not yield benefits in some affected individuals, which raises the question of whether dual therapy with monoclonal antibodies and botulinum toxin type A hold promise in patients with treatment-resistant chronic migraine.

METHOD

We searched MEDLINE for articles published from database inception to December 31st, 2019. Publications were largely selected from the past 10 years but commonly referenced and highly regarded older publications were not excluded.

RESULTS

Preclinical data suggest that anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies and botulinum toxin type A have synergistic effects within the trigeminovascular system. Of note, findings indicate that fremanezumab - an antibody targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide - mainly prevents the activation of Aδ-fibers, whereas botulinum toxin type A prevents the activation of C-fibers.

CONCLUSION

There is currently only indirect preclinical evidence to support a rationale for dual therapy with anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies and botulinum toxin type A for chronic migraine prevention. Rigorous studies evaluating clinical efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness are needed.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP): role in migraine pathophysiology and therapeutic targeting

Introduction: The neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is recognized as a critical player in migraine pathophysiology. Excitement has grown regarding CGRP because of the development and clinical testing of drugs targeting CGRP or its receptor. While these drugs alleviate migraine symptoms in half of the patients, the remaining unresponsive half of this population creates an impetus to address unanswered questions that exist in this field.Areas covered: We describe the role of CGRP in migraine pathophysiology and CGRP-targeted therapeutics currently under development and in use. We also discuss how a second CGRP receptor may provide a new therapeutic target.Expert opinion: CGRP-targeting drugs have shown a remarkable safety profile. We speculate that this may reflect the redundancy of peptides within the CGRP family and a second CGRP receptor that may compensate for reduced CGRP activity. Furthermore, we propose that an inherent safety feature of peptide-blocking antibodies is attributed to the fundamental nature of peptide release, which occurs as a large bolus in short bursts of volume transmission. These facts support the development of more refined CGRP therapeutic drugs, as well as drugs that target other neuropeptides. We believe that the future of migraine research is bright with exciting advances on the horizon.

Population pharmacokinetic modelling and simulation of fremanezumab in healthy subjects and patients with migraine

Aims

Fremanezumab is a fully humanized IgG₂Δa/κ monoclonal antibody specific for calcitonin gene‐related peptide developed and approved for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. The population pharmacokinetics (PK) of fremanezumab were characterized in healthy subjects and patients with chronic migraine and episodic migraine, including the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on PK variability.

Methods

Nonlinear mixed effects modelling was performed using NONMEM with data from 7 phase 1–3 clinical trials evaluating selected intravenous and subcutaneous dose regimens. The influence of covariates on fremanezumab PK was assessed and model evaluation was performed through visual predictive checks.

Results

A 2‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination described the PK data well. Typical values for fremanezumab central clearance (0.0902 L/d) and central distribution volume (1.88 L) for a 71‐kg subject were consistent with previously reported values for IgG antibodies. Higher body weight was associated with increased central clearance and distribution volume. Effects of other covariates (age, albumin, renal function, sex, race, injection site, and acute, analgesic and preventive medication use for migraine) were not found to statistically significantly influence fremanezumab PK. There was no indication of reduced exposure in participants with positive anti‐drug antibody status or with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Absolute bioavailability was estimated at 0.658.

Conclusions

A comprehensive population PK model was developed for fremanezumab following intravenous and subcutaneous administration in healthy subjects and patients with chronic migraine or episodic migraine, which will be used to further evaluate exposure–response relationships for efficacy and safety endpoints.

Targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide: a new era in migraine therapy

Migraine is one of the most prevalent and disabling diseases worldwide, but until recently, few migraine-specific therapies had been developed. Extensive basic and clinical scientific investigation has provided strong evidence that the neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) has a key role in migraine. This evidence led to the development of small molecule CGRP receptor antagonists and monoclonal antibodies targeting either CGRP or its receptor. Clinical trials investigating these therapies have consistently shown statistically significant efficacy for either the acute or preventive treatment of migraine. No serious safety or tolerability issues have been identified in the trials of the monoclonal antibody therapies. Although the appropriate place of these new migraine-specific therapies relative to other available acute and preventive treatments remains to be determined, a growing body of evidence shows that therapeutic approaches targeting CGRP have the potential to transform the clinical management of migraine.

The CGRP Pathway in Migraine as a Viable Target for Therapies

The neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide is well established as a key player in the pathogenesis of migraine. Clinical studies show calcitonin gene-related peptide levels correlate with migraine attacks, and decreases in this neuropeptide can indicate antimigraine therapy effectiveness. Research has revealed a wide distribution of expression sites for calcitonin gene-related peptide in the central and peripheral nervous system. Of these, the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor, which binds calcitonin gene-related peptide with high affinity, has attracted growing interest as a viable target for antimigraine therapies. An incentive to pursue such research is the continuing unmet medical need of patients. Triptans have offered some clinical benefit, but many patients do not respond and these drugs have important safety considerations. Initial calcitonin gene-related peptide-focused research led to development of the "gepant" small-molecule calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor blockers. Positive efficacy reports concerning the gepants have been tempered by safety findings which led to the discontinuation of some of these agents. Currently, there is considerable excitement regarding monoclonal antibodies against calcitonin gene-related peptide (eptinezumab, galcanezumab, fremanezumab) and the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (erenumab). To date, these monoclonal antibodies have shown promising efficacy in clinical trials, with no major safety concerns. If ongoing long-term studies show that their efficacy can be maintained, this may herald a new era for effective antimigraine therapies.

Fremanezumab in the treatment of migraines: evidence to date

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a major player in migraine pathophysiology, and CGRP monoclonal antibodies including fremanezumab may be a safe effective preventive therapy. Phase IIb studies in episodic migraine (EM) and chronic migraine (CM) demonstrated efficacy at both the monthly 225 mg and quarterly 675 mg doses. The Phase III trials for EM and CM both showed a reduction in the primary endpoint of monthly migraine days (MMD). In the EM trial, the baseline MMD of 8.9 days was reduced to 5.3 at 12 weeks and to 4.0 days in the 6-month open-label extension (OLE) for monthly dosing. In the quarterly dosing, the baseline was 9.2 days reduced to 5.3 at 12 weeks and to 4.2 days in the OLE. In the CM data for monthly dosing, the baseline was 16.2 days decreased to 11.4 at 12 weeks then to 8.3 in the OLE. In the CM quarterly dosing, the baseline of 16.4 days was reduced to 11.9 at 12 weeks and 9.9 days in the OLE. Randomized controlled trials of fremanezumab in both episodic cluster and post-traumatic headache are underway, but the trial for chronic cluster headache was stopped for futility. The most common adverse events are injection site pain (24% vs 22% for placebo), induration (17% vs 13% for placebo), and erythema (16% vs 12% for placebo). Severe adverse events were reported in 3.9% of the fremanezumab vs 3.7% of the placebo. No changes in vitals or ECG were reported. The long-term effects are not known, but the American Headache Society recommends that CGRP monoclonal antibodies be considered in EM or CM depending on previous medication trials and headache disability/frequency. Further, post-market studies are required, but for EM and CM fremanezumab is a new option for migraine preventive treatment.

Effects of Anti-Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide for Migraines: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

We aimed to evaluate the response rate of migraines by using anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide (anti-CGRP) for patients with migraines. We searched three main medical databases up to 29 March 2019. No restriction on language and publication time were applied. Eligible trials included randomized clinical trials investigating a 50%, 75%, and 100% response rate of migraine patients after anti-CGRP intervention. The collected data were dichotomous, and risk ratios (RRs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to present the quantitative synthesis results. The systematic review identified 16 eligible randomized clinical trials (RCTs) with 9439 patients. Eight of the 16 trials with 2516 patients reported a 50% response rate, and the pooled results showed a significant benefit from anti-CGRP. However, the effects seem to gradually reduce from the first month (RR 1.99, 95% CI 1.59 to 2.49) to the third month (RR 1.48, 95% CI 1.26 to 1.75) of treatment. The magnitude of effect was influenced by the type of anti-CGRP, according to the test for differences between subgroups (I-square = 53%). The funnel plots and Egger's tests did not show serious small study effects in the results. In conclusion, the current evidences confirmed that anti-CGRP treatment can reduce migraine pain in the short term (within three months), but the long-term effect should be investigated in the future. Moreover, its effects may be influenced by the type and dose of anti-CGRP. Therefore, future studies should make direct comparisons among anti-CGRP medications.

Fremanezumab for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults

Introduction: The Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) has been implicated in migraine pathophysiology due to its role in neurogenic inflammation and transmission of trigeminovascular nociceptive signal. New molecules targeting CGRP and its receptor have been developed as migraine-specific preventative treatments. Fremanezumab (or TEV-48,125, LBR-101), a human monoclonal antibody against CGRP, has been recently approved for clinical use by FDA and EMA. Areas covered: This paper briefly discusses the calcitonin family of neurotransmitters and resultant activation pathways and in-depth the chemical properties, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy and safety of Fremanezumab for the prophylactic treatment of migraine. Expert opinion: Fremanezumab, a migraine-specific drug, is effective and safe as a prophylactic treatment of chronic and episodic migraine. As a monoclonal antibody, it was not associated to liver toxicity and is not expected to interact with other drugs. The long half-life might improve patients' compliance. Long-term effects of CGRP block in cardiovascular, grastrointestinal and bone functions should be evaluated in ongoing trials, since CGRP is involved in multiple biological activities in the human body. Nevertheless, targeting CGRP itself allows the receptor binding with other ligands involved in several physiological functions. Thus, the long-term treatment with Fremanezumab is expected to be associated with a lower risk of severe adverse effects.

Are antimigraine drugs that influence CGRP levels justified?

Migraine is one of the most common disorders found in everyday clinical practice. Although migraines are not directly life-threatening or permanently disabling, the severity of the pain and symptoms that characterize a migraine attack often prevent normal work and cause difficulties in everyday life. Migraines also affect the patient's family, who often experience stress and depression in response to the patient's condition. Available therapy, used in both acute and chronic treatments, might not provide sufficient improvement. Due to problems like therapy inefficacy, side effects, and intolerance, patients often stop treatments. Recent studies have indicated that drugs that act through calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) can significantly improve migraine therapy. Here, we review results from currently available clinical trials on CGRP receptor antagonists and anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies.

How to integrate monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide or its receptor in daily clinical practice

BACKGROUND

Migraine is a major public health issue associated with significant morbidity, considerable negative impact on quality of life, and significant socioeconomic burden. Preventive treatments are required to reduce the occurrence and the severity of acute attacks and to minimize the use of abortive medications and the associate risk of drug-related adverse events, as well as the onset of medication-overuse headache and chronification of migraine. We performed a review of all available evidence on the safety and efficacy of monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide or its receptor for the preventive treatment of migraine to provide evidence-based guidance on their use in clinical practice. Monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide or its receptor are mechanism-specific drugs for the preventive treatment of migraine. Double-blind randomized clinical trials have shown that monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide or its receptor are effective across all the spectrum of migraine patients who require prevention and have a good safety and tolerability profile. Nevertheless, high costs limit the affordability of those drugs at the moment.

CONCLUSIONS

Specificity, long half-life, efficacy, tolerability, and ease of use make monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide or its receptor an appealing treatment option for migraine prevention. Optimal strategies to manage treatment over time still need to be clarified with real-life data.

Therapeutic novelties in migraine: new drugs, new hope?

Background

In the past decade, migraine research has identified novel drug targets. In this review, we discuss recent data on emerging anti-migraine therapies.

Main body

The development of ditans, gepants and anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of migraine is one of the greatest advances in the migraine field. Lasmiditan, rimegepant and ubrogepant will extend our therapeutic armamentarium for managing acute migraine attacks when triptans are not effective or contraindicated due to cardiovascular disorders. The monoclonal antibodies are migraine specific prophylactic drugs with high responder rates and favorable adverse event profiles. Furthermore, they offer convenient treatment regimens of 4- or 12-week intervals.

Conclusion

Collectively, novel migraine therapies represent a major progress in migraine treatment and will undoubtedly transform headache medicine.

Recent Advances in Pharmacotherapy for Migraine Prevention: From Pathophysiology to New Drugs

Migraine is a common and disabling neurological disorder, with a significant socioeconomic burden. Its pathophysiology involves abnormalities in complex neuronal networks, interacting at different levels of the central and peripheral nervous system, resulting in the constellation of symptoms characteristic of a migraine attack. Management of migraine is individualised and often necessitates the commencement of preventive medication. Recent advancements in the understanding of the neurobiology of migraine have begun to account for some parts of the symptomatology, which has led to the development of novel target-based therapies that may revolutionise how migraine is treated in the future. This review will explore recent advances in the understanding of migraine pathophysiology, and pharmacotherapeutic developments for migraine prevention, with particular emphasis on novel treatments targeted at the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway.

CGRP and Migraine: The Role of Blocking Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Ligand and Receptor in the Management of Migraine

Migraine is a highly prevalent, complex neurological disorder. The burden of disease and the direct/indirect annual costs are enormous. Thus far, treatment options have been inadequate and mostly based on trial and error, leaving a significant unmet need for effective therapies. While the underlying pathophysiology of migraine is incompletely understood, blocking the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) using monoclonal antibodies targeting CGRP or its receptor and small molecule CGRP receptor antagonists (gepants) have emerged as a promising therapeutic opportunity for the management of migraine. In this review, we discuss new concepts in the pathophysiology of migraine and the role of CGRP, the current guidelines for treating migraine preventively, the medications that are being used, and their limitations. We then discuss small molecule CGRP receptor antagonists, monoclonal antibodies to CGRP ligand and receptor, as well as the detailed results of Phase II and III trials involving these novel treatments. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of blocking CGRP and its receptor.

Calcitonin-gene-related peptide pathway mAbs and migraine prevention

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting the calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway have been developed for episodic and chronic migraine prevention, either through binding the CGRP ligand (eptinezumab, fremanezumab, galcanezumab) or the CGRP receptor (erenumab). We provide an update on published Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials, safety/tolerability data, pharmacokinetics and mechanism of action of these biologicals.

RECENT FINDINGS

The efficacy data from Phase 2 trials are corroborated by those from published Phase 3 trials, with a multitude of publications expected in 2018. Review of safety data concluded there was no difference in total adverse events or main adverse events (including upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, nausea, injection-site pain and back pain) between the mAbs and placebo injections except apparently for dizziness. The site of action of these mAbs is not fully elucidated but current insight is that their effect resides in the periphery; a contribution of central effect(s) can however not be excluded at present.

SUMMARY

Although efficacy of all four drugs is modest over placebo in episodic and chronic migraine prevention and overall comparable with available oral preventive treatments, current tolerability and (short-term) safety data of this new treatment approach certainly promise a major step forward for migraine patients.

CGRP ligand and receptor monoclonal antibodies for migraine prevention: Evidence review and clinical implications

Background: Monoclonal antibodies that target calcitonin gene-related peptide or the canonical calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor have emerged as effective and well tolerated for the preventive treatment of migraine. These large molecules appear ideally suited for migraine prevention. They have an extended biological half-life, are administered either monthly or quarterly either by subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion, require minimal or no dose-titration and have the potential for a rapid onset of effect compared to conventional oral preventive drugs. There is high selectivity and they target an important mediator in the pathogenesis of migraine. Investigation: Phase II and pivotal phase III studies have all yielded positive results with a favorable adverse event profile. No serious treatment-related adverse outcomes have thus far been reported in controlled or long-term open-label extension studies. This tolerability profile promises to improve adherence and, possibly, long-term outcomes. Conclusions: Calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies are effective and well tolerated for the preventive treatment of migraine. They have distinct advantages over currently available oral preventive drugs. While treatment-related serious adverse events have not been observed in open-label extension studies, long-term outcomes and safety will require broad exposure in heterogeneous patient populations in clinical practice. In addition, their safety in women, especially during pregnancy, will require longitudinal surveillance. Given the overlapping mechanism(s), the effectiveness of existing (triptans) and emerging (calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonists) acute therapies in those using a calcitonin gene-related peptide mAb will require further study.

European headache federation guideline on the use of monoclonal antibodies acting on the calcitonin gene related peptide or its receptor for migraine prevention

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Monoclonal antibodies acting on the calcitonin gene-related peptide or on its receptor are new drugs to prevent migraine. Four monoclonal antibodies have been developed: one targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (erenumab) and three targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide (eptinezumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab). The aim of this document by the European Headache Federation (EHF) is to provide an evidence-based and expert-based guideline on the use of the monoclonal antibodies acting on the calcitonin gene-related peptide for migraine prevention.

METHODS

The guideline was developed following the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. The working group identified relevant questions, performed systematic review and analysis of the literature, assessed the quality of available evidence, and wrote recommendations. Where the GRADE approach was not applicable, expert opinion was provided.

RESULTS

We found low to high quality of evidence to recommend eptinezumab, erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab in patients with episodic migraine and medium to high quality of evidence to recommend erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab in patients with chronic migraine. For several clinical questions, there was not enough evidence to provide recommendations using the GRADE approach and recommendations relied on experts' opinion.

CONCLUSION

Monoclonal antibodies acting on the calcitonin gene-related peptide are new drugs which can be recommended for migraine prevention. Real life data will be useful to improve the use of those drugs in clinical practice.

The American Headache Society Position Statement On Integrating New Migraine Treatments Into Clinical Practice

OBJECTIVE

To provide healthcare professionals with updated guidance in the use of novel preventive and acute treatments for migraine in adults.

BACKGROUND

The principles of preventive and acute pharmacotherapy for patients with migraine have been outlined previously, but the emergence of new technologies and treatments, as well as new formulations of previously established treatments, has created a need for an updated guidance on the preventive and acute treatment of migraine.

METHODS

This statement is based on a review of existing guidelines and principles for preventive and acute treatment of migraine, as well as the results of recent clinical trials of drugs and devices for these indications. Input was sought from health insurance providers, employers, pharmacy benefit service companies, device manufacturers, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, patients, and patient advocates. Expert clinicians and researchers in the field of headache medicine from across North America and the European Union provided input and feedback.

RESULTS

The principles of pharmacologic preventive treatment of migraine with oral treatments have been as follows: use evidence-based treatments when possible and appropriate; start with a low dose and titrate slowly; reach a therapeutic dose if possible; allow for an adequate treatment trial duration; establish expectations of therapeutic response and adverse events; and maximize adherence. Newer injectable treatments may work faster and may not need titration. The principles of acute treatment include: use evidence-based treatments when possible and appropriate; treat early after the onset of a migraine attack; choose a nonoral route of administration for selected patients; account for tolerability and safety issues; consider self-administered rescue treatments; and avoid overuse of acute medications. Neuromodulation and biobehavioral therapy may be appropriate for preventive and acute treatment, depending on the needs of individual patients. Neuromodulation may be useful for patients who prefer nondrug therapies or who respond poorly, cannot tolerate, or have contraindications to pharmacotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

This statement updates prior recommendations and outlines the indications for initiating, continuing, combining, and switching preventive and acute treatments of migraine.

The efficacy and safety of calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibody for episodic migraine: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of monoclonal antibodies against calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) for episodic migraine prevention.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to April 2018. Studies considered to be eligible were randomized controlled trials about efficacy and safety of calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibody for episodic migraine prevention.

RESULTS

Eight randomized controlled trials involving 2292 patients were included. The outcomes of this meta-analysis presented that CGRP monoclonal antibodies for preventive treatment of episodic migraine significantly reduced the monthly migraine days from baseline [weighted mean difference (WMD) = - 1.52; 95%CI, - 1.92 to - 1.11; Z = 7.40; P < 0.001] and monthly acute migraine-specific medication consumption from baseline [WMD = - 1.45; 95%CI, - 2.17 to - 0.72; Z = 3.93; P < 0.001], as compared with placebo group. CGRP monoclonal antibodies for preventive treatment of episodic migraine significantly increased the ≥ 50% reduction from baseline in migraine days per month [RR = 1.54; 95%CI, 1.38 to1.71; Z = 7.88; P < 0.001]. The adverse events were similar between the CGRP monoclonal antibody group and placebo group (P = 0.998). The outcomes of subgroup analysis showed that erenumab, galcanezumab, and fremanezumab significantly reduced the monthly migraine days from baseline and increased the ≥ 50% reduction from baseline in migraine days per month. Both erenumab and fremanezumab significantly reduced from baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results of this meta-analysis, CGRP monoclonal antibodies significantly reduced the monthly migraine days and acute migraine-specific medication. CGRP monoclonal antibodies were effective and safe for preventive treatment of episodic migraine.