1
|
Al-Karagholi MAM, Kalatharan V, Fagerberg PS, Amin FM. The vascular role of CGRP: a systematic review of human studies. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1204734. [PMID: 37483452 PMCID: PMC10359159 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1204734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Intravenous infusion of human alpha calcitonin gene-related peptide (h-α-CGRP) has been applied to explore migraine pathogenesis and cerebral hemodynamics during the past three decades. Cumulative data implicate h-α-CGRP in regulating the vascular tone. In this systematic review, we searched PubMed and EMBASE for clinical studies investigating the vascular changes upon intravenous infusion of h-α-CGRP in humans. A total of 386 studies were screened by title and abstract. Of these, 11 studies with 61 healthy participants and 177 participants diagnosed with migraine were included. Several studies reported hemodynamic effects including flushing, palpitation, warm sensation, heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MABP), mean blood flow velocity of middle cerebral artery (mean VMCA), and diameter of superficial temporal artery (STA). Upon the start of h-α-CGRP infusion, 163 of 165 (99%) participants had flushing, 98 of 155 (63%) participants reported palpitation, and 160 of 165 (97%) participants reported warm sensation. HR increased with 14%-58% and MABP decreased with 7%-12%. The mean VMCA was decreased with 9.5%-21%, and the diameter of the STA was dilated with 41%-43%. The vascular changes lasted from 20 to >120 min. Intravenous infusion of h-α-CGRP caused a universal vasodilation without any serious adverse events. The involvement of CGRP in the systemic hemodynamic raises concerns regarding long-term blockade of CGRP in migraine patients with and without cardiovascular complications.
Collapse
|
2
|
Schiano di Cola F, Bolchini M, Ceccardi G, Caratozzolo S, Liberini P, Rao R, Padovani A. An observational study on monoclonal antibodies against calcitonin-gene-related peptide and its receptor. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:1764-1773. [PMID: 36856538 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Based on their pharmacological target, two classes of calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been identified: antibodies against the CGRP ligand-galcanezumab, fremanezumab, eptinezumab-and antibodies against the CGRP receptor (CGRP-R), erenumab. The aim of the present study was to compare anti-CGRP versus anti-CGRP-R mAbs in patients with high frequency episodic and chronic migraine. METHODS All patients on monthly treatment with anti-CGRP mAbs with an available 6 months' follow-up at January 2022 were included. Data on efficacy outcome were collected following one (T1), three (T3) and six (T6) months of treatment, and included monthly headache/migraine days, the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) and Headache Impact Test 6 (HIT-6) scores, pain intensity, analgesics consumption and response rates (>50% headache days reduction compared to baseline). RESULTS In all, 152 patients were enrolled, of whom 68 were in treatment with anti-CGRP mAbs (49 galcanezumab, 19 fremanezumab) and 84 with the anti-CGRP-R (erenumab). MIDAS scores were significantly lower in the anti-CGRP group at T1 and T3 (respectively p < 0.02 and p < 0.03) as well as the number of mean migraine days at T3 (p < 0.01). At T3 and T6 outcome measures were comparable, although a significantly higher percentage of super-responders was found in the anti-CGRP group (respectively p < 0.04 and p < 0.05), with a similar overall percentage of responders. CONCLUSIONS The present study on a real-world sample confirms the beneficial effect of both anti-CGRP and anti-CGRP-R mAbs, with a more favorable outcome for anti-CGRP antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Schiano di Cola
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Bolchini
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giulia Ceccardi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Salvatore Caratozzolo
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Liberini
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Renata Rao
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Padovani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gα s-Coupled CGRP Receptor Signaling Axis from the Trigeminal Ganglion Neuron to Odontoblast Negatively Regulates Dentin Mineralization. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121747. [PMID: 36551174 PMCID: PMC9775440 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
An inflammatory response following dental pulp injury and/or infection often leads to neurogenic inflammation via the axon reflex. However, the detailed mechanism underlying the occurrence of the axon reflex in the dental pulp remains unclear. We sought to examine the intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling pathway in odontoblasts via the activation of Gs protein-coupled receptors and intercellular trigeminal ganglion (TG) neuron-odontoblast communication following direct mechanical stimulation of TG neurons. Odontoblasts express heterotrimeric G-protein α-subunit Gαs and calcitonin receptor-like receptors. The application of an adenylyl cyclase (AC) activator and a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor agonist increased the intracellular cAMP levels ([cAMP]i) in odontoblasts, which were significantly inhibited by the selective CGRP receptor antagonist and AC inhibitor. Mechanical stimulation of the small-sized CGRP-positive but neurofilament heavy chain-negative TG neurons increased [cAMP]i in odontoblasts localized near the stimulated neuron. This increase was inhibited by the CGRP receptor antagonist. In the mineralization assay, CGRP impaired the mineralization ability of the odontoblasts, which was reversed by treatment with a CGRP receptor antagonist and AC inhibitor. CGRP establishes an axon reflex in the dental pulp via intercellular communication between TG neurons and odontoblasts. Overall, CGRP and cAMP signaling negatively regulate dentinogenesis as defensive mechanisms.
Collapse
|
4
|
Berger AA, Keefe J, Stark CW, Moore M, Ramírez GF, Cucarola JR, Han AH, Kaye AD, Ganti L. Eptinezumab-jjmr, a humanized monoclonal specific to Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide, for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. Health Psychol Res 2022; 10:38439. [DOI: 10.52965/001c.38439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose of Review Migraines are prevalent and cause significant morbidity, decline in quality of life and healthcare costs universally. Treatment options are varied, but efficacy is limited. This review centers on Eptinezumab-jjmr, a humanized monoclonal specific to CGRP for the prevention of migraines in adults. Herein presented are the science and mechanism of action, indication and clinical evidence for use. Recent Findings Migraines are severe, recurrent headaches, which are either episodic or chronic in nature. The pain is severe, often accompanied by co-morbid symptoms, such as photophobia, phonophobia, nausea and emesis, and is limiting in nature. It is a prevalent disorder that causes significant, worldwide disability, morbidity, suffering, and costs. The pathophysiology of migraines is actively studied, though recent research points to an initiating event causing migraine generation, that is then propagated by other brain regions, a significant one being the trigeminocervical complex. This is driven by biochemical transmitters, chiefly CGRP. This discovery led to the development of CGRP-targeting drugs, including gepants (small molecular antagonists) and anti-CGRP antibodies, such as Eptinezumab-jjmr. Traditional therapy includes preventative and abortive treatment; however, adherence with preventative treatment has been historically poor, and certain types of abortive therapy carry risks and side effects that preclude them from a large patient population. Moreover, traditional therapy often falls short in migraine therapy. CGRP antagonist, including Eptinezumab, aims to cover the gaps in migraine therapy. We present here evidence to support the safe and effective use of Eptinezumab for the prevention of migraines. Summary Migraines are a prevalent primary headache disorder causing significant morbidity worldwide. Traditional abortive and preventative treatments fall short for many patients. Eptinezumab is part of new generation of CGRP-targeting medications and has shown significant evidence to support its use for the prevention of migraines. Further research is required to properly compare eptinezumab with existing pharmacotherapy and update guidelines on the appropriate combinations of therapies that are not available and the correct patient selection for each.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Matthew Moore
- Louisiana State University Shreveport School of Medicine
| | | | | | | | | | - Latha Ganti
- University of Central Florida School of Medicine
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Johnson B, Freitag FG. New Approaches to Shifting the Migraine Treatment Paradigm. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:873179. [PMID: 36147034 PMCID: PMC9488522 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.873179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard of care paradigm for migraine treatment has been based almost exclusively on approaches that grew out of the happenstance use of market pharmaceuticals. Only methysergide, which has long since been removed from use for safety concerns, the ergotamine family of drugs, and the triptans were explicitly developed with migraine and other vascular headaches in mind. While the forward and innovative thinking to utilize the broad array of agents to treat migraine served millions well, their therapeutic efficacy was often low, and adverse event profiles were troublesome in the least. Advances in biochemical and molecular biology and the application of advanced "designing drugs" methods have brought about a potentially significant shift in treatment. The gepants have efficacies similar to the triptans but without vascular safety or medication overuse concerns. Preventative gepants offer innovative approaches to prevention and efficacy that exceed even the CGRP monoclonal antibodies. Those monoclonal antibodies brought rapid and highly effective outcomes across the spectrum of migraine. They outpaced older oral medication efficacy and eliminated most adverse events while potentially improving compliance with monthly or quarterly dosing. Other serotonin receptors beyond the 5HT1B and1D receptors have been targeted for decades. They now lead us to better formulations of dihydroergotamine for efficacy, convenience, and tolerability, and a 5HT1F-specific acute treatment like the gepants opens new options for acute management. Neuromodulation goes back to the mid-1800's. Our improved understanding of applied biomedical engineering has brought forward several tantalizing devices, including the application of currents distant from the target and patient regulated. Whether these advances change the paradigm of migraine treatment and standards of care remains to be seen, and issues such as cost and patient acceptance will help mold it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Frederick G. Freitag
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
From spreading depolarization to epilepsy with neuroinflammation: The role of CGRP in cortex. Exp Neurol 2022; 356:114152. [PMID: 35760098 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
CGRP release plays a major role in migraine pain by activating the trigeminal pain pathways. Here we explored putative additional effects of CGRP on cortical circuits and investigated whether CGRP affects cortical excitability, cortical spreading depolarization (CSD), a phenomenon associated with migraine aura, blood-brain-barrier (BBB) and microglial morphology. We used immunohistochemistry to localize CGRP and the CGRP receptor (CGRP-R) in native cortex and evaluated morphology of microglia and integrity of the BBB after exposure to CGRP. In anesthetized rats we applied CGRP and the CGRP-R antagonist BIBN4096BS locally to the exposed cortex and monitored the spontaneous electrocorticogram and CSDs evoked by remote KCl pressure microinjection. In mouse brain slices CGRP effects on neuronal activity were explored by multielectrode array. CGRP immunoreactivity was detectable in intracortical vessels, and all cortical neurons showed CGRP-R immunoreactivity. In rat cortex in vivo, topical CGRP induced periods of epileptiform discharges, however, also dose-dependently reduced CSD amplitudes and propagation velocity. BIBN4096BS prevented these effects. CGRP evoked synchronized bursting activity in mouse cortical but not in cerebellar slices. Topical application of CGRP to rat cortex induced plasma extravasation and this was associated with reduced ramification of microglial cells. From these findings we conclude that CGRP induces a pathophysiological state in the cortex, consisting in neuronal hyperexcitability and neuroinflammation Thus, CGRP may have a pronounced impact on brain functions during migraine episodes supporting the benefit of CGRP antagonists for clinical use. However, increased cortical CGRP may end the CSD-induced aura phase of migraine.
Collapse
|
7
|
Al-Hassany L, Goadsby PJ, Danser AHJ, MaassenVanDenBrink A. Calcitonin gene-related peptide-targeting drugs for migraine: how pharmacology might inform treatment decisions. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:284-294. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00409-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
8
|
González-Hernández A, Marichal-Cancino BA, Villalón CM. The impact of CGRPergic monoclonal antibodies on prophylactic antimigraine therapy and potential adverse events. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2021; 17:1223-1235. [PMID: 34535065 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2021.1982892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Migraine is a prevalent medical condition and the second most disabling neurological disorder. Regarding its pathophysiology, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) plays a key role, and, consequently, specific antimigraine pharmacotherapy has been designed to target this system. Hence, apart from the gepants, the recently developed monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are a novel approach to treat this disorder. In this review we consider the current knowledge on the mechanisms of action, specificity, safety, and efficacy of the above mAbs as prophylactic antimigraine agents, and examine the possible adverse events that these agents may trigger. Antimigraine mAbs act as direct scavengers of CGRP (galcanezumab, fremanezumab, and eptinezumab) or against the CGRP receptor (erenumab). Due to their long half-lives, these molecules have revolutionized the prophylactic treatment of this neurovascular disorder. Moreover, because of their physicochemical properties, these agents are hepato-friendly and do not cross the blood-brain barrier (highlighting the relevance of peripheral mechanisms in migraine). Nevertheless, apart from potential cardiovascular side effects, the interaction with AMY1 receptors and immunogenicity induced by autoantibodies against mAbs could be a concern for the safety of long-term treatment with these molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abimael González-Hernández
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, México
| | - Bruno A Marichal-Cancino
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Ciudad Universitaria, Aguascalientes, México
| | - Carlos M Villalón
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Cinvestav‑Coapa, Ciudad de México, México
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
González-Hernández A, Marichal-Cancino BA, García-Boll E, Villalón CM. The locus of Action of CGRPergic Monoclonal Antibodies Against Migraine: Peripheral Over Central Mechanisms. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 19:344-359. [PMID: 32552657 DOI: 10.2174/1871527319666200618144637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Migraine is a complex neurovascular disorder characterized by attacks of moderate to severe unilateral headache, accompanied by photophobia among other neurological signs. Although an arsenal of antimigraine agents is currently available in the market, not all patients respond to them. As Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) plays a key role in the pathophysiology of migraine, CGRP receptor antagonists (gepants) have been developed. Unfortunately, further pharmaceutical development (for olcegepant and telcagepant) was interrupted due to pharmacokinetic issues observed during the Randomized Clinical Trials (RCT). On this basis, the use of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs; immunoglobulins) against CGRP or its receptor has recently emerged as a novel pharmacotherapy to treat migraines. RCT showed that these mAbs are effective against migraines producing fewer adverse events. Presently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved four mAbs, namely: (i) erenumab; (ii) fremanezumab; (iii) galcanezumab; and (iv) eptinezumab. In general, specific antimigraine compounds exert their action in the trigeminovascular system, but the locus of action (peripheral vs. central) of the mAbs remains elusive. Since these mAbs have a molecular weight of ∼150 kDa, some studies rule out the relevance of their central actions as they seem unlikely to cross the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB). Considering the therapeutic relevance of this new class of antimigraine compounds, the present review has attempted to summarize and discuss the current evidence on the probable sites of action of these mAbs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abimael González-Hernández
- Instituto de Neurobiologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Blvd. Juriquilla 3001, 76230 Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Bruno A Marichal-Cancino
- Departamento de Fisiologia y Farmacologia, Universidad Autonoma de Aguascalientes, Ciudad Universitaria, 20131 Aguascalientes, Mexico
| | - Enrique García-Boll
- Instituto de Neurobiologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Blvd. Juriquilla 3001, 76230 Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Carlos M Villalón
- Departamento de Farmacobiologia, Cinvestav-Coapa, Czda. de los Tenorios 235, Col. Granjas-Coapa, Deleg, Tlalpan, 14330 Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zimmer L. Fundamental and clinical neuropharmacology, a terra incognita with constantly expanding frontiers. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2021; 35:501-505. [PMID: 34013525 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Neuropharmacology is the science that studies the effects of drugs on the central nervous system. Examining the recent history of neuropharmacology allows us to identify future challenges and to project into the future. The contemporary history of neuropharmacology begins with the empirical use of psychotropic alkaloids in barbiturate preparations. Then the discovery of neuroleptics in the 1950s truly opened up the field of pharmacological science, with psychopharmacological clinical exploration in psychiatry, complemented by the contributions of neurochemists and biochemists discovering and exploring neurotransmission. These studies also contributed to the development of dopaminergic and serotonergic drugs used in neurology. The more recent period brought the advent of neuropsychopharmacology, sharing therapeutic targets in neurology and psychiatry on the one hand, and a translational research approach on the other. Moreover, the pharmacology of brain drugs is still a growing discipline in 2020. Despite emerging pharmacological concepts (biased agonists, glial targeting, epigenetic therapeutics, etc.), entire areas of brain-based therapeutics need to be renewed, particularly in psychiatry, offering great challenges to a new generation of pharmacologists and clinicians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luc Zimmer
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CRNS, INSERM, Lyon, France.,Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,National Institute for Nuclear Science and Technology, INSTN, Saclay, France
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Migraine is a common and disabling disorder affecting approximately 1.02 billion people worldwide. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) has been identified as playing an important role in the pathophysiology of migraine and several migraine-specific therapies targeting the CGRP ligand or its receptor have been approved since 2018 for the acute and preventive treatment of migraine. This review focuses on the pharmacology, clinical efficacy and safety/tolerability of galcanezumab, an anti-CGRP monoclonal antibody approved for the prevention of migraine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay M Frerichs
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd. Dallas, TX 75390, USA.,Department of Neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 660 S. Euclid Ave. Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Deborah I Friedman
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd. Dallas, TX 75390, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd. Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Schoenen J, Manise M, Nonis R, Gérard P, Timmermans G. Monoclonal antibodies blocking CGRP transmission: An update on their added value in migraine prevention. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2020; 176:788-803. [PMID: 32758365 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2020.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The avenue of effective migraine therapies blocking calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) transmission is the successful outcome of 35 years of translational research. Developed after short-acting, the small antagonists of the CGRP receptor (the "gepants"), the monoclonal antibodies blocking CGRP or its receptor (CGRP/rec mAbs) have changed the paradigm in migraine treatment. Contrary to the classical acute medications like triptans or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with a transient effect, they act for long durations exclusively in the peripheral portion of the trigeminovascular system and can thus be assimilated to a durable attack treatment, unlike the classical preventives that chiefly act upstream on the central facets of migraine pathophysiology. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) of eptinezumab, erenumab, fremanezumab and galcanezumab have included collectively several thousands of patients, making them the most extensively studied class of preventive migraine treatments. Their results clearly indicate that CGRP/rec mAbs are significantly superior to placebo and have been comprehensively reviewed by Dodick [Cephalalgia 2019;39(3):445-458]. In this review we will briefly summarize the placebo-subtracted outcomes and number-needed-to-treat (NNT) of these pivotal RCTs and analyze new and post-hoc studies published afterwards focusing on effect size, effect onset and sustainability, response in subgroups of patients, safety and tolerability, and cost-effectiveness. We will also summarize our limited real-world experience with one of the CGRP/rec mAbs. Although methodological differences and lack of direct comparative trials preclude any reliable comparison, the overall impression is that there are only minor differences in efficacy and tolerability profiles between the four monoclonals: the average placebo-subtracted 50% responder rates for reduction in migraine headaches are 21.4% in episodic migraine (NNTs: 4-5), 17.4% in chronic migraine (NNTs: 4-8). Patients with an improvement exceeding 50% are rare, chronic migraineurs with continuous headache are unlikely to be responders and migraine auras are not improved. The effect starts within the first week after administration and is quasi maximal at one month. It is sustained for long time periods and may last for several months after treatment termination. CGRP/rec mAbs are effective even after prior preventive treatment failures and in patients with medication overuse, but the effect size might be smaller. They significantly reduce disability and health care resource utilization. The adverse effect profile of CGRP/rec mAbs is close to that of placebo with few minor exceptions and despite concerns related to the safeguarding role of CGRP in ischemia, no treatment-related vascular adverse events have been reported to date. Putting the CGRP/rec mAbs in perspective with available preventive migraine drug treatments, their major advantage seems not to be chiefly their superior efficacy but their unprecedented efficacy over adverse event ratio. Regarding cost-effectiveness, preliminary pharmaco-economic analyses of erenumab suggest that it is cost-effective for chronic migraine compared to no treatment or to onabotulinumtoxinA, but likely not for episodic migraine unless attack frequency is high, indirect costs are considered and its price is lowered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Schoenen
- Headache Research Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Liège, Citadelle Hospital, 4000 Liège, Belgium.
| | - M Manise
- Headache Research Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Liège, Citadelle Hospital, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - R Nonis
- Headache Research Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Liège, Citadelle Hospital, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - P Gérard
- Headache Research Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Liège, Citadelle Hospital, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - G Timmermans
- Headache Research Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Liège, Citadelle Hospital, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pervez H, Khemani L, Khan MA, Seedat AM, Roshan FNU. Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Antagonists as a Savior in Episodic and Chronic Migraine: A Review. Cureus 2020; 12:e8711. [PMID: 32699706 PMCID: PMC7372217 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.8711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Headaches due to migraine are the second leading cause of disability in the world. Migraine can be classified as episodic migraine (EM) and chronic migraine (CM). The course of the disease starts from an aura followed by 4-72 hours of bouts of throbbing, mostly unilateral headache associated with nausea, photo/phonophobia with/without neurological deficit. The pathophysiology of migraine remains debatable and many drugs are used to help control migraine attacks with little or no benefit. However, patient compliance remains a reason for over and underdosing of these medications. The calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a vasoactive peptide is known to contribute to the disease course. Much work is done on antagonizing the receptor or the molecule itself. For this purpose, genetically engineered monoclonal antibodies are being utilized for long-term reduction in morbidity and prevention of migraine headaches. The four to name are: galcanezumab, fremanezumab, eptinezumab, and erenumab. The purpose of this review is to shed light on the use of these monoclonal antibodies, completed and recruiting trials, and the role of these medications in the prevention of not only EM and CM but also in medication overuse headaches.
Collapse
|
14
|
Urits I, Clark G, An D, Wesp B, Zhou R, Amgalan A, Berger AA, Kassem H, Ngo AL, Kaye AD, Kaye RJ, Cornett EM, Viswanath O. An Evidence-Based Review of Fremanezumab for the Treatment of Migraine. Pain Ther 2020; 9:195-215. [PMID: 32222952 PMCID: PMC7203396 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-020-00159-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Urits
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Gavin Clark
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Daniel An
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Bredan Wesp
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rebecca Zhou
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Amnon A Berger
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hisham Kassem
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL, USA
| | - Anh L Ngo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pain Medicine, Pain Specialty Group, Newington, NH, USA
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Rachel J Kaye
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Elyse M Cornett
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Omar Viswanath
- Valley Anesthesiology and Pain Consultants - Envision Physician Services, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Curto M, Capi M, Cipolla F, Cisale GY, Martelletti P, Lionetto L. Ubrogepant for the treatment of migraine. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2020; 21:755-759. [PMID: 32011192 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2020.1721462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Migraine is a neurovascular disorder involving neurogenic inflammation and transmission of trigeminovascular nociceptive pathways mediated by Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP). Several small molecules antagonizing the CGRP receptor have been developed as migraine-specific acute medications. The CGRP receptor antagonist ubrogepant, also known as MK-1602, has been recently evaluated in phase III clinical trials for clinical efficacy and long-term safety as an abortive migraine treatment. AREAS COVERED This paper discusses the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, safety, and tolerability profile of ubrogepant for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura. EXPERT OPINION Ubrogepant, a selective CGRP antagonist belonging to the gepants family, has been evaluated in large short- and long-term Phases 2 and 3 clinical trials aimed to assess clinical efficacy and safety as acute migraine medication. It did not significantly affect liver function and was not associated with other serious adverse events. Long-term non-serious adverse events were similar between placebo and ubrogepant. The efficacy was evaluated in large placebo-controlled studies and ubrogepant 50 mg and 100 mg was superior, even if the therapeutic gain seems to be low. Nevertheless, the favorable safety profile compared to other abortive drugs makes ubrogepant a promising option for the acute treatment of migraine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Curto
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome , Rome, Italy.,International Mood & Psychotic Disorders Research Consortium, Mailman Research Center, McLean Hospital , Belmont, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Mental Health, ASL Roma 3 , Rome, Italy
| | - Matilde Capi
- Mass Spectrometry Lab-Clinical Biochemistry Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital , Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiola Cipolla
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome , Rome, Italy
| | - Giusy Ylenia Cisale
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University , Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Martelletti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome , Rome, Italy
| | - Luana Lionetto
- Mass Spectrometry Lab-Clinical Biochemistry Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital , Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yuan H, Spare NM, Silberstein SD. Targeting CGRP for the Prevention of Migraine and Cluster Headache: A Narrative Review. Headache 2019; 59 Suppl 2:20-32. [DOI: 10.1111/head.13583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hsiangkuo Yuan
- Jefferson Headache Center Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia PA USA
| | - Nicole M. Spare
- Jefferson Headache Center Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia PA USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lionetto L, Curto M, Cisale GY, Capi M, Cipolla F, Guglielmetti M, Martelletti P. Fremanezumab for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2019; 12:741-748. [PMID: 31220963 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2019.1635452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luana Lionetto
- a Mass Spectrometry Laboratory Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Martina Curto
- b Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome , Rome , Italy.,c International Mood & Psychotic Disorders Research Consortium, Mailman Research Center , Belmont , MA , USA.,d Department of Mental Health , Colleferro (RM) , Italy
| | - Giusy Ylenia Cisale
- e Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University , Rome , Italy
| | - Matilde Capi
- a Mass Spectrometry Laboratory Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Fabiola Cipolla
- f Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome , Rome , Italy
| | - Martina Guglielmetti
- g Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari , Sassari , Italy.,h Regional Referral Headache Center, Sant'Andrea University Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Paolo Martelletti
- f Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome , Rome , Italy.,h Regional Referral Headache Center, Sant'Andrea University Hospital , Rome , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Akhtar A. The Role of Anti-calcitonin Gene-related Peptide in Migraine and its Implication in Developing Countries: A Reasonable Option to Consider Despite Higher Cost. Cureus 2019; 11:e4796. [PMID: 31396466 PMCID: PMC6679707 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine is among the commonest causes of headache in all ages. It is the second most common cause of neurological disability. Currently, antihypertensive, antidepressants and antiepileptic drugs are reasonable preventable medications for chronic migraine. Despite the higher levels of stigma associated with this disease, fewer attempts were made in past regarding the treatment options for chronic migraine. Recently, a novelty treatment was introduced known as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies as a possible mechanism for the prevention of migraine attacks. CGRP played an important role in the etiology of migraine headaches and was considered as the major peptide behind the cause of the headache disorders. We have reviewed the benefits of these monoclonal antibodies in terms of their efficacy and adverse effects with the available treatment choices. These drugs showed superior results when compared to the placebo and were considered generally safe in the majority of clinical trials. Earlier versions of CGRP antagonists, known as gepants, were less tolerable due to their tendency to cause liver and cardiovascular complications. Thus, in comparison to the earlier gepants, these CGRP monoclonal antibodies were safer and demonstrated excellent tolerability. Short-term side effects were only limited to mild-moderate injection site rash or pruritus, however, their long-term side effects are still unknown. Despite the higher cost of these drugs, we have analyzed the applicability of this drug in the developing countries. Although the quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained per cost of the drug is still expensive and majority of people may not afford, its excellent tolerability and less adverse effects should also be considered a reason to implement this drug, particularly for resource-limited countries. Moreover, these medications could also become a prototype for future inventions and creations (cost-effective versions for resource-limited countries). In conclusion, this review suggests that CGRP monoclonal antibodies are safer and excellent alternate option for patients with chronic migraine as it has better efficacy, tolerability, and provides a hope to reduce the stigma associated with migraine. All these benefits should be the deciding factors when opting for this treatment and the decision should not be made solely on the socioeconomic status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Akhtar
- Internal Medicine, Pakistan Air Force Hospital, Islamabad, PAK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Negro A, Martelletti P. Patient selection for migraine preventive treatment with anti-CGRP(r) monoclonal antibodies. Expert Rev Neurother 2019; 19:769-776. [DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2019.1621749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Negro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- Regional Referral Headache Centre, Sant’Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Martelletti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- Regional Referral Headache Centre, Sant’Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Scuteri D, Adornetto A, Rombolà L, Naturale MD, Morrone LA, Bagetta G, Tonin P, Corasaniti MT. New Trends in Migraine Pharmacology: Targeting Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) With Monoclonal Antibodies. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:363. [PMID: 31024319 PMCID: PMC6465320 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a common neurologic disorder characterized by attacks consisting of unilateral, throbbing headache accompanied by photophobia, phonophobia, and nausea which remarkably reduces the patients' quality of life. Not migraine-specific non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective in patients affected by mild episodic migraine whilst in moderate or severe episodic migraine and in chronic migraineurs triptans and preventative therapies are needed. Since these treatments are endowed with serious side effects and have limited effectiveness new pharmacological approaches have been investigated. The demonstrated pivotal role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) has fostered the development of CGRP antagonists, unfortunately endowed with liver toxicity, and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) toward circulating CGRP released during migraine attack or targeting its receptor. Currently, four mAbs, eptinezumab, fremanezumab, galcanezumab for CGRP and erenumab for CGRP canonical receptor, have been studied in clinical trials for episodic and chronic migraine. Apart from the proven effectiveness, these antibodies have resulted well tolerated and could improve the compliance of the patients due to their long half-lives allowing less frequent administrations. This study aims at investigating the still poorly clear pathogenesis of migraine and the potential role of anti-CGRP mAbs in the scenario of prophylaxis of migraine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damiana Scuteri
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health Science and Nutrition, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Annagrazia Adornetto
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health Science and Nutrition, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Laura Rombolà
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health Science and Nutrition, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Maria Diana Naturale
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
- School of Hospital Pharmacy, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Luigi Antonio Morrone
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health Science and Nutrition, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Giacinto Bagetta
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health Science and Nutrition, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Paolo Tonin
- Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, Crotone, Italy
| | - Maria Tiziana Corasaniti
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
- School of Hospital Pharmacy, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| |
Collapse
|