Zavzpret® (zavegepant)
Zavzpret is the first and only calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist nasal spray, specifically designed for the acute treatment of migraines with or without aura in adults. This prescription nasal spray offers a fast-acting and effective solution to relieve migraine symptoms, as proven in clinical trials. Unlike oral medications, Zavzpret delivers migraine relief directly through a nasal spray, providing a convenient option for patients who need rapid symptom control.
How Zavzpret Works
Zavzpret works by targeting and blocking CGRP receptors, which play a key role in the development of migraine attacks. By inhibiting these receptors, Zavzpret reduces the symptoms associated with migraines, such as head pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. This medication is designed for use during a migraine attack and is not intended for preventative treatment.
Learn more about migraines and other treatment options here.
Dosage and Administration
Zavzpret is administered as a single 10 mg dose via nasal spray, and each unit provides one spray per device. The medication should be sprayed into one nostril, and no more than one dose should be used within 24 hours. The safety of using more than eight doses in 30 days has not been established.
Important: Do not test spray or prime the device before use, as this could cause a loss of the dose. Zavzpret is for single use only and should be discarded after use.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Zavzpret may cause side effects. The most common side effects include:
Taste disorders (such as a metallic taste) in about 18% of patients.
Nausea in approximately 4% of users.
Nasal discomfort is experienced by 3% of patients.
Vomiting occurred in about 2% of users.
While serious side effects are rare, some users may experience allergic reactions, including facial swelling and hives. If you experience any severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Zavzpret official website.
Important Safety Information
Allergic Reactions: Zavzpret should not be used by individuals with known hypersensitivity to Zavegepant or any of its ingredients. Severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face or throat, can occur.
Liver and Kidney Conditions: Zavzpret is not recommended for individuals with severe liver or kidney impairment due to the lack of safety data in these populations.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your healthcare provider before using Zavzpret if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking, as Zavzpret may interact with other prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Alternatives to Zavzpret
While Zavzpret provides fast-acting relief for acute migraine attacks, other treatment options are available depending on individual needs. Common alternatives include:
Nurtec ODT: Like Zavzpret, Nurtec blocks CGRP activity but is available in oral tablet form, providing another option for acute migraine relief.
Triptans (e.g., sumatriptan, rizatriptan): These oral medications target serotonin receptors to reduce migraine-related pain and inflammation, commonly used for acute treatment.
Ergots (e.g., dihydroergotamine): Often used for patients who do not respond well to triptans, ergots work by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation associated with migraines.
Preventative Treatments: Options like Medical Botox, which is injected to reduce the frequency of migraines, are commonly used for chronic migraine sufferers. Other preventative medications include topiramate or propranolol, which help reduce the occurrence and severity of migraines but do not treat active attacks.
For more alternatives, visit our Migraine Treatment Options page.
