Aimovig side effects and how to avoid them

Aimovig is a brand-name medication manufactured by Amgen, used for migraine prevention. While Aimovig is generally well tolerated, there are some potential side effects that people should be aware of. The most common side effects of Aimovig include injection site reactions and muscle cramps. Less common, but more serious side effects, can include allergic reactions and hypertension.

Learn more about the side effects of Aimovig and what you can do to avoid them.

What is Aimovig (erenumab)?

Aimovig is a prescription medicine given to adults for the treatment of migraine headaches. It contains the active ingredient erenumab-aooe, a monoclonal antibody.

Erenumab works by blocking the action of a molecule called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). CGRP normally attaches to receptors on cells in your brain thought to be involved in triggering migraine attacks. Erenumab attaches to these receptors instead of CGRP, stopping it from stimulating the receptors and preventing migraines.

Aimovig dosage

Aimovig is available in injection form as 70 mg/mL solution in a single-dose prefilled autoinjector, and 70 mg/mL solution in a single-dose prefilled syringe.

Aimovig is for subcutaneous use only. Inject into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The recommended dose is 70 mg once monthly. Some patients may require a dosage of 140 mg once monthly.

Take this medication out of the refrigerator before use. Allow the Aimovig autoinjector or syringe to warm up to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Do not heat this medication any other way. Do not expose to direct sunlight and do not shake this medication.

You are advised to read the full prescribing information provided with this medicine for drug information and patient information, and always speak with your healthcare provider for medical advice about any changes to your dose so they can monitor and evaluate your condition.

Aimovig side effects

The most common possible side effects of Aimovig in clinical studies compared to placebo include:

  • Injection site reactions, such as swelling, redness, and pain
  • Constipation
  • Cramps with muscle spasms

Aimovig can cause more serious side effects, including:

  • Severe allergic reactions to the medication such as swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat, and problems breathing
  • Severe constipation can cause serious complications requiring hospital treatment or surgery
  • High blood pressure (hypertension) or worsening existing high blood pressure
  • Hair loss (alopecia)

If you experience any of these serious adverse reactions, stop taking Aimovig and seek medical attention immediately. You are encouraged to report negative adverse effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Aimovig drug interactions

Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you more about possible interactions that may occur with the use of Aimovig. Before taking Aimovig, be sure to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking to ensure they are safe to take at the same time.

Aimovig warnings & precautions

Don’t take Aimovig if:

  • Are allergic to the active ingredient erenumab-aooe
  • You have known hypersensitivity to any of the other ingredients in Aimovig
  • Are under 18 years of age

Talk to your doctor before taking Aimovig if you:

  • Are allergic to rubber or latex, as the caps of the prefilled SureClick and prefilled syringes contain a natural rubber similar to latex
  • Are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant
  • Are breastfeeding or are planning to breastfeed

You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, including Aimovig, to make sure it is safe for you.

Other warnings you should know about

Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, which can be life-threatening to this drug are rare. Get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including hives, rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing

How to avoid Aimovig side effects

The best way to avoid side effects is to take Aimovig as directed by your doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and do not take more or less than prescribed.

If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to recommend ways to help reduce or prevent some of the side effects.

1. Stick to the recommended dosage

Take your prescribed dose of Aimovig that has been recommended by your healthcare professional. Do not take more or less than prescribed.

2. Avoid alcohol

Avoiding alcohol while taking Aimovig is not required, however, drinking alcohol can trigger or worsen a migraine headache in many people.

3. Know the signs and symptoms of Aimovig side effects

Signs and symptoms of side effects include muscle spasms and injection site reactions. If you experience any of these symptoms speak to your doctor.

4. Monitor your weight

Weight gain and weight loss are not side effects reported in studies of Aimovig.

5. Tell your doctor about all medications you’re taking

Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as they can interact with Aimovig.

6. Get regular medical checkups

If you have migraine attacks it is important to get regular medical checkups and monitor your medical conditions. Your doctor will monitor your side effects and may adjust your dose of Aimovig as needed.

Medically reviewed

A medical professional has reviewed this article.

Jamie Winn, PharmD
Jamie Winn, PharmD

Jamie Winn, PharmD

Medical Writer & Reviewer

Jamie Winn, PharmD

Medical Writer & Reviewer

Dr. Jamie Winn received his Doctor of Pharmacy in 2002 from the University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Columbia, SC. Jamie is a medical reviewer for NiceRx.

NiceRx Logo

Your medication,
$49 per month

Get your Aimovig medication for only $49 per month through NiceRx.

Get Started