An oral, small molecule calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist for acute migraine treatment.
Calcitonin gene-related peptide is a neurotransmitter expressed in peripheral sensory trigeminal neurons that innervates the pain sensitive dura and meningeal blood vessels.
During a migraine attacks the transmitter is released and facilitates transmission of pain in the trigeminal vascular system.
In a randomized trial patients who received ubrogepant had a high percentage of freedom from pain and absence of bothersome symptoms at two hours after the dose, compared with placebo (Dodick D).
Side effects: nausea, somulence and dry mouth.