A Monoclonal Antibody to Prevent Migraine in Children and Adolescents

Clinical Takeaway

: Fremanezumab was safe and effective in the landmark trial that led to approval in this population.

Context

Migraine can be debilitating in children and adolescents, and preventive treatment options have been limited by side effects and poor adherence. Recently, fremanezumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP), became the first drug in its class approved for the prevention of episodic migraine in this population. Now, researchers have published the trial results that led to this approval.

Approximately 235 patients 6 to 17 years of age with episodic migraine were randomized to receive monthly injections of fremanezumab or placebo for 3 months. Fremanezumab was dosed at 120 mg for those weighing <45 kg and 225 mg for those weighing ≥45 kg.

Key Results

At baseline, patients had an average of 8 migraine days p…

Reviewing Author

Teshamae Monteith, M.D.

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardAbbVie; Axsome; Teva; Linpharma; e-Neura; Novartis; Merz; Lundbeck; Axsome; Pfizer. Unpaid co-author for collaborative research sponsored by AbbVie, Pfizer/Biohaven, and Theranica.

RoyaltiesSpringer

Editorial BoardsCephalalgia; Continuum Audio; Neurology Minute; Neurology; American Migraine Foundation; Brain and Life Magazine

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesFlorida Society of Neurology (member, Executive Board); American Migraine Foundation (member, Executive Board); United Councils of Neurologic Subspecialities Examination Committee (Vice Chair)

OtherPaid speaking/education for Medscape, Massachusetts Medical Society, American Headache Society, and American Academy of Neurology