Treatment with galcanezumab, also known as Emgality

The preparation 

Emgality is specifically developed to prevent migraine and is approved for adults who have at least 4 attacks per month.

Mechanism of action 

It is known that CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide), which is produced in our nervous system, plays an active role in a migraine attack.

Emgality works by binding specifically to and blocking the activity of the CGRP molecule in the brain. This can reduce the number and severity of your migraine attacks.

Emgality has a half-life of approximately 27 days.

Side effects 

Injection site reactions, itching, rash, and constipation. Very rarely, anaphylactic reactions.

Precautions 

You should not use Emgality if you have certain types of cardiovascular disease.

Emgality must not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. 

You must stop taking Emgality at least 5 months before trying to become pregnant.

Before starting treatment

Blood pressure is checked 

What is the required dosage? 

The first time you take Emgality, you must receive a loading dose, i.e., 2 pens of 120 mg each.

Going forward, you must inject 1 dose of 120 mg once every month (one pen). 

How is Emgality taken?

We recommend that you take Emgality out of the refrigerator approximately 30 minutes before use.

Do not shake the Emgality pen.

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Emgality can be injected into either the thigh or the abdomen. If you have someone to help you, it can also be injected into the upper arm.

Check that the liquid in the pen is clear and free of sediment. 

1. Twist the white triangular cap off the pen in the direction of the arrow.
2. Stretch or pinch the skin where you wish to inject. 
3. Place the pen at a 90-degree angle against the skin.
4. Slide the white marker from the locked to the open position, marked with a padlock. 
5. Press the green button all the way down. It is important that you maintain pressure until the plunger in the window has reached the bottom and you hear a "click".
6. The used pen should be disposed of in the designated bag and can be returned to the pharmacy for recycling.

Storage

When you receive Emgality, make sure to place it in the refrigerator within 4 hours. Emgality must be stored in a refrigerator at 2-8°C, protected from light. Do not freeze.

Can be stored for up to 7 days at a maximum of 30°C. Unused pens must be discarded after this period.