MedPath

Galcanezumab

Generic Name
Galcanezumab
Brand Names
Emgality
Drug Type
Biotech
CAS Number
1578199-75-3
Unique Ingredient Identifier
55KHL3P693
Background

Galcanezumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody developed by Eli Lilly and Company against human calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Although several small-molecule CGRP receptor antagonists have been developed, humanized monoclonal antibodies like galcanezumab are specifically designed to selectively bind to CGRP entities with high potency. Given this target specificity, lack of off-target toxicity, and characteristic proteolysis profile of immunoglobulin antibodies to not undergo metabolism by liver enzymes, galcanezumab possesses favourable and promising safety and tolerability. Galcanezumab was approved by the FDA in September 2018, and is indicated for the preventive treatment of migraine and the treatment of episodic cluster headache. It is unknown if galcanezumab has an effect on pregnancy outcomes. A pregnancy exposure registry has been established to evaluate the safety of this drug in pregnant women.

Indication

Galcanezumab is indicated in adults for the preventive treatment of migraine and the treatment of episodic cluster headache.

Associated Conditions
Episodic Cluster Headache, Migraine

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Galcanezumab Shows Significant Promise in First Randomized Trial for Vestibular Migraine Treatment

• The INVESTMENT trial demonstrates galcanezumab's effectiveness in treating vestibular migraine, with patients showing significant reduction in definite dizzy days from 17.9 to 6.6 compared to placebo. • Treatment with galcanezumab led to substantial improvements in dizziness handicap scores, with patients experiencing a 22-point reduction compared to 8.3 points in the placebo group. • 71% of patients receiving galcanezumab reported moderate or greater treatment effects, marking a significant advancement in therapeutic options for vestibular migraine management.

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