The National Headache Foundation was founded in 1970, and we have observed
many changes in headache therapy over the years. As was in the beginning, we are
committed to those experiencing headache. Our Mission is “To Cure Headache and
End Its Pain and Suffering,” and our Vision is “A World Without Headache.” Recent
events have brought our goals closer to fruition.
For the last few years, the CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) pathway in
migraine has been explored. This research has been targeted in efforts to identify
new treatments for migraine disease. Recently, a monoclonal antibody therapy,
based on the CGRPs, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The
National Headache Foundation applauds Amgen and Novartis, the manufacturers of
Aimovig™ (erenumab), for their achievement in being the first anti-CGRP agent to
reach patients.
Several pharmaceutical companies are currently in development of anti-CGRPs,
including Eli Lilly (galcanezumab), Teva (fremanezumab), and Alder (eptinezumab).
Erenumab, galcanezumab, and fremanezumab will be administered by subcutaneous
injection. Eptinezumab is being developed for intravenous administration. Ubrogepant
(Allergan) and rimegopant (Biohaven) are being studied as oral preparations of anti-
CGRPs. Our hopes are that these new agents will revolutionize headache therapy.
In this issue, Timothy Smith, MD, R.Ph., the first Vice President of the NHF, has
contributed an article which reviews these therapies and their potential benefits for
those experiencing migraine. At the NHF, we are significantly encouraged that the anti-
CGRPs will help a great number of the 40 million Americans with migraine disease.
Seymour Diamond, M.D.
Chicago, Illinois
www.headaches.org
|
National Headache Foundation
3