Migraines are a common and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, researchers are constantly working to develop new treatments to help those who suffer from this condition. A nasal spray has been introduced as a potential remedy for acute migraine attacks.
A migraine is a headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head. It's often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last for hours to days, and the pain can be so severe that it interferes with your daily activities.
Calcitonin gene-related peptide-targeting agents are a novel class of therapeutics for migraine, but none are currently available as a nonoral option for acute treatment. Zavegepant nasal spray is a third-generation calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist. It is the first CGRP available for nasal administration. However, strong clinical data on its safety and efficacy is deficient.
Clinical Trial
A clinical trial evaluated the tolerability and effectiveness of zavegepant nasal spray for the treatment of acute migraine episodes.The trial involved 1,588 adults who presented with an acute episode of migraine. The researchers divided the participants into four groups. Three groups received different doses of zavegepant nasal spray (5mg, 10mg, and 20mg), while the fourth group received a placebo nasal spray that looked and tasted like the real thing but contained no active ingredients.
The participants were instructed to use the nasal spray when they were experiencing a migraine attack. They were then asked to rate their pain level after using the spray. The researchers also measured other factors, such as the freedom from the most bothersome symptom at 2h postdose.