Migraines are more than just headaches. For millions of adults, migraine attacks bring intense pain, nausea, sensitivity to light, and sound that can disrupt daily life. Advances in migraine treatment have introduced new options that target migraine pathways more precisely than older medications. One of these options is Ubrelvy.
Ubrelvy is a prescription medication approved for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. Unlike traditional migraine drugs that constrict blood vessels, Ubrelvy works by blocking a protein involved in migraine pain signaling. This targeted approach makes it a valuable option for people who cannot tolerate or do not respond well to older therapies.
This guide explains what Ubrelvy is, how it works, how to take it safely, possible side effects, drug interactions, cost considerations, and how it compares to other migraine treatments.
Ubrelvy is the brand name for ubrogepant, a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as CGRP inhibitors. CGRP stands for calcitonin gene-related peptide, a protein that plays a major role in migraine attacks.
Ubrelvy is used to treat migraine attacks when they happen. It is not approved for preventing migraines. The medication is available by prescription only and comes in two strengths: 50 mg tablets and 100 mg tablets.
Ubrelvy was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in December 2019 for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. There is currently no generic version available.
Ubrelvy is used to treat migraine headaches in adults. It can be taken when migraine symptoms begin, whether or not an aura is present.
Ubrelvy is not intended for daily use or for migraine prevention. It should only be used during a migraine attack. The safety of treating more than eight migraine attacks per month with Ubrelvy has not been established.
People who experience frequent migraines should talk with their healthcare provider about preventive treatment options in addition to acute medications.
Ubrelvy works by blocking the activity of CGRP, a protein that is released during migraine attacks. CGRP contributes to migraine pain by promoting inflammation, widening blood vessels in the brain, and amplifying pain signals.
Ubrogepant binds to CGRP receptors and prevents CGRP from activating them. By interrupting this pathway, Ubrelvy helps reduce headache pain and other migraine symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
Unlike triptans, which constrict blood vessels, Ubrelvy does not cause vasoconstriction. This makes it an important option for people with certain cardiovascular conditions who cannot safely take triptans.
Ubrelvy should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Always follow the instructions on your prescription label.
The usual adult dose for migraine is:
Ubrelvy can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
You should not take a second Ubrelvy dose within 24 hours if you:
If your migraine does not improve or returns after treatment, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
Like all medications, Ubrelvy may cause side effects. Most side effects are mild to moderate and do not require medical attention.
The most commonly reported Ubrelvy side effects include:
These side effects are usually temporary and may lessen as your body adjusts to the medication.
Serious side effects are rare but possible. Seek emergency medical care if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
This is not a complete list of side effects. Always report new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Ubrelvy is not suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions and medications may increase the risk of side effects.
Do not take Ubrelvy if you:
Before starting Ubrelvy, tell your healthcare provider if you have:
Ubrelvy is not approved for use in children or adolescents under 18 years of age.
Ubrelvy can interact with many medications. Some interactions can increase side effects, while others may reduce effectiveness.
Important drug interactions include:
Always tell your healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over the counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products you use.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interfere with how Ubrelvy is processed in the body. This may increase the risk of side effects.
Avoid grapefruit products while taking Ubrelvy. If you consume grapefruit, do not take a second dose within 24 hours.
It is not known whether Ubrelvy will harm an unborn baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.
Migraine itself can cause complications during pregnancy, so treatment decisions should be individualized.
It is also unclear whether Ubrelvy passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using Ubrelvy.
Ubrelvy is taken as needed, so there is no regular dosing schedule. Do not take more than the recommended amount.
If you take too much Ubrelvy, seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1 800 222 1222.
The cost of Ubrelvy can vary depending on your insurance coverage and pharmacy. As a brand name medication without a generic version, Ubrelvy can be expensive without insurance.
Many patients may qualify for savings programs, copay cards, or manufacturer discounts. Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider about available cost assistance options.
Ubrelvy is one of several CGRP based treatments available for migraine. Others include Nurtec ODT and preventive medications such as Qulipta.
Triptans are older migraine medications that constrict blood vessels. While effective for many people, they are not suitable for patients with certain heart or vascular conditions.
Ubrelvy does not constrict blood vessels, making it a safer alternative for some patients.
Both Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT are CGRP receptor antagonists used for acute migraine treatment. Nurtec ODT is also approved for migraine prevention, while Ubrelvy is not.
The choice between these medications depends on individual response, dosing preference, and medical history.
Store Ubrelvy at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F. Keep the medication in its original container and out of reach of children.
Do not use Ubrelvy past its expiration date.
Ubrelvy represents a modern approach to migraine treatment by targeting CGRP, a key driver of migraine pain. For adults seeking an alternative to traditional migraine medications, Ubrelvy offers effective relief without the blood vessel effects seen with older drugs.
As with any prescription medication, Ubrelvy should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Proper dosing, awareness of interactions, and understanding potential side effects can help ensure safe and effective migraine relief.
Always consult your healthcare professional to determine whether Ubrelvy is the right choice for your migraine treatment plan.
