Anti-CGRP - Migraine Treatment in Singapore

Migraines affect millions worldwide, causing intense pain and disrupting daily life. Prior the 2010s, the prevention of migraine headaches typically depended on off-label medications (or medications that were not designed specifically for the treatment of migraines but were found to be helpful subsequently). Examples of these medications include anti-seizure medications and blood pressure medications.

In the last 10 years, our understanding of migraine has evolved significantly. It has been found that during a migraine attack. the blood levels of a protein called Calcitonin Gene-related peptide (CGRP) are significantly raised. This had led to the development of anti-CGRP treatment modalities. This article explores how anti-CGRP therapies work, their availability in Singapore, and what patients can expect from this new migraine treatment.

Migraine sufferer with an intense dislike for light (photophobia) during an attack

Understanding CGRP and Its Role in Migraines

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a molecule involved in the transmission of pain signals and and inflammation of the blood vessels. During a migraine attack, CGRP levels rise, contributing to the severe headache and other symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light.

Blocking CGRP can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. This discovery led to the development of CGRP inhibitors, a new class of migraine medications designed to prevent migraines.

How Anti-CGRP Treatments Work

Anti-CGRP treatments utilize monoclonal antibodies to block the CGRP protein or its receptor. These medications are typically administered as injections, either monthly or quarterly, depending on the specific drug.

In Singapore, common options include:

• Aimovig (erenumab)

• Emgality (galcanezumab)

• Ajovy (fremanezumab)

• Vyepti (Eptinizemab)

  
  

Each targets CGRP differently but aims to reduce migraine frequency and severity.

Benefits of Anti-CGRP Migraine Treatment in Singapore

Patients visiting a migraine clinic Singapore report several advantages of anti-CGRP therapies:

• Reduced migraine attacks: Many experience fewer migraine days per month, sometimes cutting attacks by half or more.

• Improved quality of life: With fewer migraines, patients can return to work, social activities, and daily routines with less disruption.

• Fewer side effects: Compared to traditional migraine preventives, anti-CGRP treatments often cause fewer side effects, making them easier to tolerate.

  
  

A migraine specialist Singapore can help determine if this treatment suits your condition, especially for those who have not responded well to other medications.

Accessing Anti-CGRP Treatment in Singapore

Finding the right treatment starts with consulting a migraine specialist Singapore. Your doctor will assess your migraine history, frequency, and response to previous treatments to see if you are suitable for anti-CGRP therapy.

What to Expect During Treatment

• Initial consultation: Detailed evaluation of your migraine pattern and medical history.

• Prescription and injection: The specialist will prescribe the appropriate anti-CGRP medication, such as Aimovig Singapore, Emgality injection Singapore, or Ajovy. Injections are usually self-administered after training. Vyepti is usually administered in the clinic or as an inpatient.

• Follow-up: Regular check-ins to monitor effectiveness and adjust treatment if needed.

  
  

Cost Considerations

One common concern is the CGRP inhibitor cost Singapore. These treatments can be expensive, with prices varying depending on the medication and dosage. For example, the Ajovy price Singapore may differ from Aimovig or Emgality. Some clinics offer payment plans or insurance coverage options, so discussing costs upfront with your migraine specialist Singapore is important.

Who Should Consider Anti-CGRP Treatment?

Anti-CGRP therapy is suitable for adults with frequent migraines who have not found relief from traditional preventive medications. It is not recommended for everyone, so consultation with a migraine specialist in Singapore is essential.

Patients with certain medical conditions should discuss risks and benefits carefully. At present, due to the lack of safety data, we do not recommend it for pregnant patients.

Alleviate Pain Clinic

Dr Christopher Liu is a migraine pain specialist and medical director at Alleviate Pain Clinic. He treats migraines and offers advanced options such as CGRP treatment as well as minimally invasive procedures for patients with severe migraines. Make an appointment to see us today.