Why is this medication prescribed?

Atogepant is prescribed primarily for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults. It’s a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) receptor antagonists. These drugs work by blocking CGRP, a substance in the brain that is involved in migraine attacks. By inhibiting CGRP, atogepant helps reduce the frequency of migraine headaches.

How should this medicine be used?

Atogepant is typically taken orally in the form of tablets. Here’s how it is generally used:

• Dosage: The usual recommended dose for Atogepant is one 60 mg tablet taken once daily. However, your healthcare provider may adjust the dose based on your response and tolerance.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food.
• Consistency: It’s important to take Atogepant consistently at the same time each day to help maintain steady levels of the medication in your system.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, as some may interact with Atogepant.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and usage. If you have any questions or concerns about how to take Atogepant, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Atogepant is primarily approved for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine. As of now, it’s not commonly used for other conditions or off-label purposes. Its primary use is focused on reducing the frequency of migraine attacks.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Atogepant:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to Atogepant or any other medications.
• Medical Conditions: Let your doctor know if you have any other medical conditions, particularly liver problems, as Atogepant is metabolized in the liver.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. The safety of Atogepant during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established.
• Drug Interactions: Be aware of potential interactions with other medications you are taking. Atogepant may interact with certain drugs, which could affect its efficacy or increase the risk of side effects.
• Side Effects: Monitor for any side effects, such as allergic reactions or liver-related symptoms (e.g., jaundice, dark urine), and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Missed Doses: Follow the instructions for missed doses carefully to avoid taking too much medication.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider may be needed to assess the effectiveness of the medication and monitor for side effects.

Always follow the specific guidance provided by your healthcare provider regarding the use of Atogepant and inform them of any concerns or unusual symptoms you experience.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Atogepant does not have specific dietary restrictions. You can generally take it with or without food. However, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated may help with overall migraine management. If you have any specific dietary concerns or conditions that could interact with Atogepant, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Atogepant, take it as soon as you remember.
• Close to Next Dose: If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one.
• Regular Schedule: Resume your regular dosing schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Atogepant may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea: Some people may experience an upset stomach or nausea.
• Constipation: Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, can occur.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or fatigued can be a side effect.

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Problems: Symptoms of liver issues, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain, should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.
• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, should be addressed immediately as they could be signs of an allergic reaction.

It’s important to monitor for any side effects and report them to your healthcare provider, especially if they are severe or persistent. Your provider can help manage side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment are needed.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Atogepant:

• Storage: Store Atogepant at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original container to protect it from light and ensure it stays dry. Do not store it in the bathroom where humidity is higher.
• Disposal: Do not dispose of Atogepant in household trash or flush it down the toilet unless instructed to do so by a medication take-back program or your pharmacist. Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal authorities for proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: While specific overdose symptoms for Atogepant are not well-documented, general signs of overdose could include severe nausea, dizziness, or unusual fatigue.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Keep regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Atogepant and adjust the dose if necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Always inform your healthcare provider about all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Consistency: Take Atogepant at the same time each day to help maintain steady levels in your system.
• Missed Doses: Follow the instructions provided for missed doses and do not double up on doses.

If you have any additional questions or need more information about Atogepant, your healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide further guidance.