Aimovig

Aimovig (erenumab-aooe) is a fully human injectable biologic co-developed by Amgen and Novartis, FDA-approved in May 2018 as the first therapy specifically designed to target the CGRP pathway for migraine prevention. It marked a major advance in migraine medicine, offering a monthly self-injectable option targeting the root biology of migraine rather than repurposing drugs developed for other conditions.

Aimovig belongs to the CGRP receptor antagonist (anti-CGRP) drug class. Unlike Emgality (galcanezumab) and Ajovy (fremanezumab) which target the CGRP ligand itself, Aimovig specifically targets and blocks the CGRP receptor, preventing CGRP from binding regardless of which CGRP molecule triggers the attack.

## What Aimovig is used for

Aimovig is FDA-approved for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. It reduces the frequency of migraine days per month — it is not taken to abort an active migraine attack (for that, use acute treatments like triptans or Nurtec/Ubrelvy).

## Aimovig dosing

• Standard dose: 70 mg subcutaneously once monthly
• Higher dose: 140 mg once monthly for patients who do not achieve adequate response at 70 mg

The 140 mg dose is available as a single 140 mg SureClick autoinjector or as two consecutive 70 mg injections.

## How long does it take for Aimovig to work?

Many patients see fewer migraine days within the first month. Across clinical trials, patients experienced 3–4 fewer migraine days per month compared to placebo. About 40% of patients achieved a ≥50% reduction in monthly migraine days. Full response is typically assessed after 3 months at the optimal dose.

## Aimovig vs. Emgality vs. Ajovy

All three are CGRP-pathway biologics for migraine prevention: - Aimovig blocks the CGRP receptor (monthly injection) - Emgality blocks the CGRP ligand (monthly injection; also approved for cluster headache) - Ajovy blocks the CGRP ligand (monthly or quarterly injection)

No head-to-head trials exist; choice depends on patient preference, insurance, and response history.

## Side effects of Aimovig

Common (≥2%): injection-site reactions, constipation, muscle cramps.

Serious: hypertension (new or worsening), severe constipation (including cases requiring hospitalization), and rare hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and angioedema. Post-marketing, there have been reports of hair loss (alopecia) and Raynaud's phenomenon — these are under ongoing monitoring.

## Aimovig side effects: weight and hair loss

• Weight: Aimovig is not associated with significant weight change in clinical trials. Some patients report modest weight loss — likely from improved quality of life and activity from fewer migraines.
• Hair loss: Post-marketing reports of hair loss (alopecia) have been filed with the FDA. This is not listed in the prescribing information as a confirmed side effect, but it has been noted by some patients. Report any hair loss to your prescriber.

## Long-term side effects of Aimovig

The CGRP pathway plays a role in cardiovascular regulation and pain signaling throughout the body. Long-term inhibition of the CGRP receptor raises theoretical concerns about cardiovascular and GI effects. Clinical trial data up to 5 years suggest the safety profile remains acceptable, but long-term post-market surveillance continues.

## Aimovig cost and copay card

Aimovig list price is approximately $7,000–$8,000 per year. The Amgen Aimovig copay assistance program (Aimovig savings card) allows eligible commercially insured patients to pay as little as $5 per month.

• Aimovig discount card / savings card: available through Amgen's patient support program
• Aimovig manufacturer coupon: check the official Aimovig.com website for current offers
• Patient assistance: for uninsured patients who meet income criteria

## Aimovig needle size and injection instructions

Aimovig uses a 27-gauge needle. The SureClick autoinjector is designed for easy self-injection. Inject into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before injecting. The needle size is similar to insulin pens.

## Medical disclaimer

This article about Aimovig (erenumab) is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your neurologist or headache specialist.