CGRP is an extensively studied neuropeptide that has been implicated in the pathophysiology of migraine. While a number of small molecule antagonists against the CGRP receptor have demonstrated that targeting this pathway is a valid and effective way of treating migraine, off-target hepatoxicity and formulation issues have hampered the development for regulatory approval of any therapeutic in this class. The development of monoclonal antibodies to CGRP or its receptor as therapeutic agents has allowed this pathway to be re-investigated. Herein we review why CGRP is an ideal target for the prevention of migraine and describe four monoclonal antibodies against either CGRP or its receptor that are in clinical development for the treatment of both episodic and chronic migraine. We describe what has been publically disclosed about their clinical trials and future clinical development plans.
Keywords: CGRP; chronic migraine; migraine; monoclonal antibodies.
© 2015 The British Pharmacological Society.