Nurtec ODT: The Migraine Medication Khloe Kardashian Takes
Since 2020, Khloe Kardashian has been a spokesperson for Nurtec ODT (rimegepant), a medication manufactured by Biohaven, which was later acquired by Pfizer. She has appeared in multiple ad campaigns discussing her personal struggle with chronic migraines and crediting Nurtec ODT with providing her relief.
Nurtec ODT is a CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) receptor antagonist, a newer class of medication for migraines. Unlike older migraine drugs like triptans, which work by constricting blood vessels, Nurtec ODT functions by blocking the CGRP protein, which is released during a migraine attack and contributes to inflammation and pain. The medication is unique because it is FDA-approved for both the acute treatment of an ongoing migraine attack and the preventive treatment of episodic migraine.
How Nurtec ODT Works for Migraine
CGRP is a neuropeptide involved in the pathophysiology of migraines. When a migraine attack is triggered, CGRP is released from nerve endings, leading to inflammation and dilation of blood vessels in the brain, which causes the characteristic pain. By blocking the CGRP receptor, Nurtec ODT stops this process at its source. For acute treatment, it comes as an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT), which means it dissolves quickly in the mouth without needing water. This is especially beneficial for people who experience nausea or vomiting with their migraines. In clinical trials, Nurtec ODT has shown to provide pain relief within an hour and lasting up to 48 hours. When used for prevention, it is taken every other day to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks over time.
Comparing Modern and Traditional Migraine Medications
Nurtec ODT and other gepants represent a significant shift in migraine pharmacology compared to older treatments. Here is a comparison of Nurtec (a gepant) and triptans, which were once considered the gold standard for acute migraine relief.
| Feature | Nurtec ODT (Rimegepant) | Triptans (e.g., Sumatriptan) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism of Action | Blocks CGRP receptor, inhibiting pain signals and inflammation. | Boosts serotonin to constrict blood vessels in the brain. |
| Cardiovascular Risk | Lower risk; considered safer for people with certain heart conditions. | Can cause narrowing of blood vessels, making them unsuitable for some with heart disease. |
| Administration | Orally disintegrating tablet (ODT). | Available as pills, injections, or nasal sprays. |
| Usage | Dual-purpose: Acute treatment of an attack and preventive therapy. | Primarily for acute treatment of attacks. |
| Onset of Action | Can begin working within an hour. | Varies by formulation; some can work within 30-60 minutes. |
| Side Effects | Nausea, stomach pain, indigestion. | Nausea, tingling, fatigue, or chest tightness. |
Other Advanced Migraine Treatments
While Nurtec ODT is a prominent example, the field of migraine treatment has seen several innovations. Other notable options include:
- Other Gepants: Medications like Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) for acute treatment and Qulipta (atogepant) for prevention also target the CGRP pathway. Zavegepant (Zavzpret) is a nasal spray gepant for acute relief.
- CGRP Monoclonal Antibodies: These include injections like Aimovig (erenumab), Ajovy (fremanezumab), and Emgality (galcanezumab), or IV treatment like Vyepti (eptinezumab), used for migraine prevention by targeting CGRP signaling.
- Botox Injections: OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) is FDA-approved for preventing chronic migraines in adults. Injections are administered into the head and neck approximately every 12 weeks.
- Neuromodulation Devices: Non-invasive devices that stimulate nerves can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
The Role and Controversy of Celebrity Endorsements
Khloe Kardashian's endorsement of Nurtec ODT brought significant media attention to the medication. However, it also sparked debate and backlash, raising ethical concerns about celebrities promoting expensive prescription drugs. Critics pointed out the potential for undue influence and the high cost of the medication without insurance, which can be a barrier for many migraine sufferers. Kardashian's choice to share her health struggles, though, also empowered many with migraines by increasing public awareness and normalizing conversations about a condition that is often misunderstood and minimized.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Treatment for Your Migraine
Khloe Kardashian's public use and endorsement of Nurtec ODT have been instrumental in raising awareness of this modern, dual-action migraine medication. Her experience highlights that what works for one person may not work for another, and that effective treatment can be life-changing for migraine sufferers. Migraine management is a personal journey, and consulting with a healthcare professional to explore the full range of options, including lifestyle changes, is crucial. For those with migraines, hope lies not in following a celebrity's path, but in working with a doctor to find the most suitable treatment plan.
