CGRP and Migraine Attacks

CGRP and Migraine Attacks
Olcegepant as a Treatment for Migraine Attacks

CGRP and Migraine Attacks

Research is leading to a better understanding of the severe headaches which come with migraines, and the result could be further treatment options.

A natural chemical called CGRP (the long name is calcitonin gene-related peptide) has been found in parts of the brain and the cranial nerves. These are the nerves which have the job of supplying pain signals from the scalp and head. CGRP appears to be a signal transmitter in these areas and in particular, is able to cause blood vessels near it to open wider, and dramatically increase blood flow. In people who develop migraines, the throbbing headache is due to an opening of blood vessels in the head, and CGRP appears to be part of this process.

Olcegepant as a Treatment for Migraine Attacks

A medicine has been found, named olcegepant, which can block the effects of the CGRP in the migraine process. This represents an entirely new and very specific potential treatment for migraine. Initial safety and effectiveness testing has suggested no serious adverse effects. Trials of the best route of delivery of the drug, and the evaluation of olcegepant against existing medications, are underway. Until then, it is not available in Australia.

(This article was kindly written by Professor Mervyn Eadie, Virtual Neuro Centre Editorial Advisory Board member).

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