Emgality: Health Benefits & Risks
What are the health benefits of Emgality?
Emgality is a brand-name prescription medication that contains the active ingredient galcanezumab. It is used for the preventive treatment of migraine headaches in adults. Emgality belongs to a class of medications called CGRP inhibitors, which work by blocking the activity of a protein called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) that is involved in migraine attacks. Some of the health benefits of Emgality include:
- Reduced frequency of migraine attacks: Clinical studies have shown that Emgality can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks in people with episodic or chronic migraine.
- Improved quality of life: By reducing the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, Emgality can help improve the quality of life for people with migraine, including reducing the impact of migraines on daily activities and productivity.
- Long-lasting relief: Emgality is administered as a once-monthly injection, which provides continuous protection against migraine attacks throughout the month.
- Well-tolerated: Emgality is generally well-tolerated, with common side effects including injection site reactions, constipation, and muscle pain. Serious side effects are rare.
- Convenience: Emgality is self-administered as a subcutaneous injection, which can be done at home, making it convenient for people with migraine to manage their treatment.
It’s important to note that Emgality is not a cure for migraine and may not be effective for everyone. It’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of Emgality with your healthcare provider to determine if it is a suitable treatment option for you.
What are the health risks of Emgality?
Emgality (galcanezumab) is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects and carry certain health risks. It’s important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Some of the health risks associated with Emgality include:
- Injection site reactions: The most common side effect of Emgality is mild to moderate injection site reactions, such as pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to Emgality, including rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. These reactions can be serious and require immediate medical attention.
- Constipation: Constipation is a common side effect of Emgality, which may occur in some people.
- Muscle pain: Some people may experience muscle pain or stiffness while taking Emgality.
- Hypersensitivity reactions: Rarely, Emgality can cause hypersensitivity reactions, which may include rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. These reactions can be serious and require immediate medical attention.
- Depression: Some people may experience depression or mood changes while taking Emgality. It’s important to discuss any changes in mood or behavior with your healthcare provider.
- Other side effects: Other less common side effects of Emgality may include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, and upper respiratory tract infections.
It’s important to use Emgality only as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to follow their instructions carefully. If you experience any side effects while taking Emgality, talk to your healthcare provider.
TL; DR: Emgality Summary
Emgality is a brand name medication that contains the active ingredient galcanezumab-gnlm. It is a prescription medication used for the preventive treatment of migraine headaches in adults. Emgality belongs to a class of drugs known as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibitors, which work by blocking the activity of CGRP, a protein that plays a key role in the development of migraines.
Emgality is administered as a subcutaneous injection and is typically given once a month by the individual themselves after receiving proper training from a healthcare provider. The dosage and frequency of Emgality may vary depending on the individual’s condition and response to treatment.
Emgality is indicated for the prevention of migraines in adults who experience frequent episodic migraines or chronic migraines. It is not used for the treatment of acute migraine attacks but rather to reduce their frequency and severity over time.
Common side effects of Emgality may include injection site reactions (such as redness, swelling, or pain), constipation, and dry mouth. More serious side effects may include allergic reactions, hypersensitivity reactions, or liver problems. It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Emgality.
Before starting treatment with Emgality, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions or medications you are taking, as they may interact with Emgality or affect its effectiveness.
If you have any questions or concerns about taking Emgality, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Emgality may not be suitable for everyone, so it is crucial to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for your migraine condition.