Emgality Dosage, forms & strengths
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Get started todayEmgality (galcanezumab-gnlm) is a prescription monoclonal antibody that is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company. Emgality is in a class of medications called calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (CGRP) antagonists. By blocking the CGRP receptor, it prevents the vasodilation (widening) of the blood vessels in your brain. Clinical studies showed that this helps with migraine prevention and treating symptoms of cluster headaches.
Emgality (galcanezumab-gnlm) is indicated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the:
- Prevention of episodic migraine and chronic migraine headaches
- Treatment of episodic cluster headaches
Emgality dosage forms and strengths
Emgality is available as a pre-filled syringe and a pre-filled pen with the following strengths:
- 120mg/ml single-dose pre-filled pen
- 100mg/ml single-dose pre-filled syringe
- 120mg/ml single-dose pre-filled syringe
Emgality dosage
The recommended dosing for the preventive treatment of migraines is a 240mg loading dose (2 consecutive subcutaneous injections of 120mg) followed by once-monthly doses of 120mg.
The recommended dosing of Emgality is a 300mg dose (3 consecutive subcutaneous injections or 100mg) at the start of the cluster period, then once a month until the cluster period ends.
Emgality adult dosage chart
| Indication | Starting dosage | Standard dosage | Maximum dosage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Migraine prophylaxis | Loading dose of 240mg injected under the skin. | 120mg injected under the skin once a month. | 120mg injected under the skin once a month. |
| Cluster headache | Loading dose of 300mg injected under the skin. | 300mg injected under the skin once a month until the cluster period ends. | 300mg injected under the skin once a month. |
The safety and efficacy of Emgality have not been established in patients 18 years of age and younger.
Emgality dosage restrictions
- There is no dosage adjustment necessary in patients with renal (kidney) or hepatic (liver) impairment.
How to take Emgality
- Read the Full Prescribing Information, Patient Information leaflet, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide that comes with Emgality.
- Use Emgality exactly as your doctor prescribes it to you. Your doctor should show you or your caregiver how to prepare and use your Emgality pen or pre-filled syringe before you begin treatment.
- Emgality is for subcutaneous use only. You should inject Emgality under the skin in your abdomen, thigh, buttocks, or the back of your upper arm.
- If you are using Emgality for the prevention of migraine headaches, you will inject it once a month. Your first dose (loading dose) is given as 2 separate injections right after one another. If you miss a dose, inject the missed dose immediately then start your monthly dosing schedule 1 month from your last dose.
- If you are taking Emgality for episodic cluster headaches, you will use it at the start of a cluster period and then every month until the end of the cluster period. If you miss a dose, take the missed dose of Emgality as soon as possible, then inject your next dose 1 month later to get back on your monthly dosing schedule.
- Store Emgality in its original carton away from direct sunlight in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). You can store Emgality at room temperature up to 86°F (30°C) for up to 7 days. Do not put Emgality back in the refrigerator. Do not freeze or shake Emagality.
Emgality dosage FAQs
What are some common side effects of Emgality?
Some common adverse reactions (incidence ≥1%) to Emgality include:
- Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, and pain
Emgality can rarely cause serious side effects including:
- Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis (rash, angioedema, hives, and trouble breathing)
Contact your doctor for medical advice about any side effects or worsening symptoms you experience while taking Emgality. You can report your side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
What are some drug interactions with Emgality?
When Emgality is taken with other medications, they may interact and change how they work. Make sure your healthcare professional is aware of all the prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take. There were no major drug interactions with Emgality during placebo-controlled clinical trials.
Are there any contraindications or precautions with Emgality?
Emgality is not recommended for use in patients who have had an allergic reaction to Emgality or any of its excipients.
How long does Emgality stay in your system?
Emgality has an elimination half-life of around 27 days, so it will stay in your circulation for up to 5 months after your last dose.
Is it safe to use Emgality while pregnant or breastfeeding?
There is no sufficient evidence of any risk associated with the use of Emgality in pregnant women. Animal studies in rats and rabbits did not show any adverse events on the fetus. There is a pregnancy registry for women who take Emgality. You may enroll by calling 1-833-464-4724 or by visiting www.migrainepregnancyregistry.com.
It is not known whether Emgality is found in breast milk or any adverse events it may have on your infant during lactation. You should always discuss the risks and benefits of any medication with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Will lab monitoring be done when taking Emgality?
Currently, there is no initial lab testing or monitoring needed while taking Emgality.
