Practical NeurologyAmerican Headache Society Issues New Migraine Prevention Guidance

Transforming Migraine Prevention: CGRP-Targeting Therapies Ascend to First-Line Status

In a significant advancement for migraine management, the American Headache Society (AHS) has endorsed calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-targeting therapies as a primary strategy for preventing migraines. This endorsement, articulated in a consensus position statement published in Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, reflects a paradigm shift, emphasizing the efficacy, safety, and patient-centric benefits of CGRP-targeting treatments in the context of migraine prevention.

Key Points:

• The AHS recommends CGRP-targeting therapies as a first-line treatment for migraine prevention, aligning them with other established preventive options.
• This guidance is based on a thorough analysis of both clinical trial outcomes and real-world effectiveness, showcasing the therapies’ safety and efficacy.
• CGRP-targeting treatments, including monoclonal antibodies and receptor antagonists, are FDA-approved for both episodic and chronic migraine management.
• These therapies are deemed “migraine-specific,” offering a targeted approach compared to other available treatments.
• The statement emphasizes the critical role of CGRP in migraine pathophysiology and provides practical advice on integrating these therapies into clinical practice.
• Recommendations cover various clinical considerations, such as medication transitioning, patient adherence, and managing side effects.
• Dr. Andrew Charles, AHS President, highlights the potential transformative impact of these therapies on reducing migraine-related burdens and enhancing patient care.

“Moving CGRP-targeting therapies to the first line of treatment could have a transformational impact on the prevention of migraine attacks and their associated burdens.”
– Andrew Charles, MD, FAHS, President of the AHS

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