The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new medication called Zavzpret (zavegepant) for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. This means it is used to stop a migraine attack once it has started, not to prevent future attacks. Zavzpret comes as a nasal spray, which is a new option for people who prefer not to take pills, especially if they have nausea during a migraine.
Zavzpret belongs to a class of drugs called CGRP receptor antagonists. These drugs work by blocking the effects of a protein called CGRP, which is involved in causing migraine pain and symptoms. In clinical studies involving over 2,000 adults, a single 10 mg dose of Zavzpret was more effective than a placebo at providing pain relief and freedom from the most bothersome symptom (such as sensitivity to light or sound, or nausea) within two hours.
This approval is significant because it provides a fast-acting, non-oral treatment option. Many people with migraines experience nausea, which can make swallowing a pill difficult. The nasal spray may be easier to use during an attack. However, the safety of using Zavzpret for more than eight migraines in a 30-day period has not been studied, so it is not intended for frequent use.
If you suffer from migraines, this new option might be worth discussing with your doctor. They can help you decide if Zavzpret is right for you, based on your medical history and the pattern of your migraines. Remember, this medication is for treating an active migraine, not for preventing them, and it should be used as directed by your healthcare provider.
