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Galcanezumab

Generic name: galcanezumab [ GAL-ka-NEZ-ue-mab ]
Brand names: Emgality Prefilled Pen, Emgality Prefilled Syringe, Emgality
Dosage form: subcutaneous solution (gnlm 100 mg/mL; gnlm 120 mg/mL)
Drug class: CGRP inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 21, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is galcanezumab?

Galcanezumab is used to prevent migraine headaches in adults.

Galcanezumab is also used to treat cluster headache episodes in adults.

Galcanezumab may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Galcanezumab side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

An allergic reaction to galcanezumab can occur several days after an injection.

Common side effects of galcanezumab may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Galcanezumab side effects (more detail)

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use galcanezumab if you are allergic to it.

Galcanezumab is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether galcanezumab will harm an unborn baby. However, having migraine headaches during pregnancy may cause preeclampsia (dangerously high blood pressure that can lead to medical problems in both mother and baby). The benefit of preventing migraines may outweigh any risks to the baby.

It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.

How should I use galcanezumab?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Galcanezumab is injected under the skin. A healthcare provider may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.

For prevention of migraine headaches: Galcanezumab is usually given as a first dose of 2 injections, followed by 1 injection once per month.

For treatment of a cluster headache episodes: Galcanezumab is usually given as 3 injections at the start of the cluster period, followed by 1 injection once per month until the end of the cluster period.

Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand all instructions.

Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Do not use if the medicine looks cloudy, has changed colors, or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

Store galcanezumab in its original carton in the refrigerator, protected from light. Do not freeze or shake the medicine.

You may briefly store galcanezumab at room temperature. Protect from light and use the medicine within 7 days. Do not put it back in the refrigerator.

Take the medicine out of the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature for 30 minutes before injecting your dose. Do not warm the medicine with hot water, sunlight, or a microwave.

Each prefilled syringe or pen is for one use only. Throw it away after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.

Galcanezumab dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Migraine Prophylaxis:

Initial dose: 240 mg subcutaneously once
Maintenance dose: 120 mg subcutaneously monthly

Comments:
-The first dose is a loading dose consisting of 2 consecutive subcutaneous injections of 120 mg each.
-If a dose is missed, administer as soon as possible. Thereafter, dose can be scheduled from the date of the last dose.

Use: For the preventive treatment of migraine.

Usual Adult Dose for Cluster Headache:

Initial dose: 300 mg subcutaneously at the onset of the cluster period
Maintenance dose: 300 mg subcutaneously once a month until the end of the cluster period

Comments:
-Each dose is administered as 3 consecutive subcutaneous injections of 100 mg each.
-This drug is to be injected once a month for the length of a cluster period which may extend from several weeks to months.
-If a dose is missed, administer as soon as possible. Thereafter, dose can be scheduled monthly from the date of the last dose.

Use: For the treatment of episodic cluster headaches.

Detailed Galcanezumab dosage information

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you remember, and then restart your regular injection schedule 1 month later. Do not use two doses at one time to make up a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using galcanezumab?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect galcanezumab?

Other drugs may affect galcanezumab, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Galcanezumab drug interactions (more detail)

Frequently asked questions

View more FAQ

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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