Migraine-targeting drug approved for Aussie use

A drug specifically designed to target and prevent migraines has been approved for use in Australia.

The treatment, called Aimovig (erenumab), is part of a new class of long-acting medications that involve monthly injections.

“Erenumab is the first in a family of new treatments that was born from 30 years of migraine science which specifically targets a pain pathway that’s almost unique to migraine,” Sydney neurologist Dr Jane Prosser said.

More specifically, it binds to a receptor in the brain to block activity of a molecule called the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP).

Dr Prosser says the safety profile has been tested in trials.

“Remarkably they are well tolerated with very few significant side-effects and incredibly low dropout rates in the clinical trials,” she said.

Currently, patients rely on preventive strategies that are intended for other conditions such as taking cardiovascular drugs, antidepressants, anti-seizure medication and botox.

Sandra Bowen was one of the first to take part in the world trial of erenumab at Austin Health in Melbourne.

She failed all treatments before being enrolled in the trial of the drug which has significantly reduced the number and severity of her migraines.

“I’ve had migraines since I was a child. I’m now in my mid-60s and I’ve done all the treatments without success. But this treatment actually works,” she said.

The number of migraines she suffers has dropped from 14 to nearly four a month.

“It’s a game-changer, it’s a life-changer for me,” she said.

The drug is expected to be available in October and will cost $700 to $850 a month for a private prescription.

The drug’s supplier, Novartis, is continuing to make submissions to have the treatment made available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

Sydney migraine patient Trish Mumford says the new treatment should be subsidised so more Australians can benefit.

“Even with the severity of the migraine, it would have an impact, the cost would have a huge impact on whether you could choose to have that or not,” she said.

The Earlwood, Sydney, resident relies on botox to keep her condition under control but says without affordable migraine treatments, the burden is huge.

“The whole impact of chronic migraines causes quite a rippling effect throughout the family. And an impact on your quality of lifestyle, even your ability to earn money,” she said.

Dr Prosser said people should contact their GP or neurologist for more information relating to new therapies.

There are about 3.5 million Australians who suffer from migraines and the causes are varied.

“Most people have a family history and then there are environmental triggers which can start each individual attack,” Dr Prosser said.