Which option correctly identifies a CGRP-targeted prophylaxis therapy?

Which option correctly identifies a CGRP-targeted prophylaxis therapy?

• A. Beta-blocker
• B. CGRP receptor antagonist
• C. Botulinum toxin
• D. A monoclonal antibody targeting CGRP or its receptor

Answer: (D)

Targeting the CGRP pathway for migraine prevention is the concept here. Monoclonal antibodies that either bind CGRP itself or block its receptor are designed specifically for prophylaxis, giving durable, targeted suppression of the CGRP signaling involved in migraine attacks. Examples include antibodies against CGRP (like galcanezumab, fremanezumab, and eptinezumab) and against the CGRP receptor (such as erenumab). They are administered periodically (monthly or quarterly) and have a favorable safety profile, making them a true CGRP-targeted prophylaxis. Other options aren’t CGRP-targeted preventive therapies. A beta-blocker is a classic, non-specific preventive agent with broad cardiovascular effects. Botulinum toxin acts through local neuromuscular modulation and is approved for chronic migraine but does not directly target CGRP. A CGRP receptor antagonist refers to a small-molecule “gepant,” which has been used mainly for acute treatment (and in some contexts for prevention, but not as clearly established as the monoclonal antibodies for long-term prophylaxis).

Targeting the CGRP pathway for migraine prevention is the concept here. Monoclonal antibodies that either bind CGRP itself or block its receptor are designed specifically for prophylaxis, giving durable, targeted suppression of the CGRP signaling involved in migraine attacks. Examples include antibodies against CGRP (like galcanezumab, fremanezumab, and eptinezumab) and against the CGRP receptor (such as erenumab). They are administered periodically (monthly or quarterly) and have a favorable safety profile, making them a true CGRP-targeted prophylaxis.

Other options aren’t CGRP-targeted preventive therapies. A beta-blocker is a classic, non-specific preventive agent with broad cardiovascular effects. Botulinum toxin acts through local neuromuscular modulation and is approved for chronic migraine but does not directly target CGRP. A CGRP receptor antagonist refers to a small-molecule “gepant,” which has been used mainly for acute treatment (and in some contexts for prevention, but not as clearly established as the monoclonal antibodies for long-term prophylaxis).