Nurtec vs. Ubrelvy: Key Differences, Similarities, and Ways to Save on Migraine Relief

Nurtec vs. Ubrelvy: Key Differences, Similarities, and Ways to Save on Migraine Relief

Migraines can severely disrupt your daily life, causing intense pain, nausea, and light sensitivity. Fortunately, medications like Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) and Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) offer fast relief from acute migraine attacks. Both medications belong to the class of CGRP inhibitors, which target the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor involved in triggering migraines. While these drugs share similarities, they also have important differences in their usage, dosing, and preventive capabilities.

This article provides a detailed comparison of Nurtec and Ubrelvy, exploring how they work, their differences, and ways to reduce costs with available coupons and savings programs.

Similarities Between Nurtec and Ubrelvy

Both Nurtec and Ubrelvy belong to the CGRP receptor antagonist class of medications. They block the activity of CGRP, a protein involved in the inflammatory process that causes migraines. By doing so, they help relieve symptoms of an acute migraine attack. Here are some key similarities between the two:

  • Mechanism of Action: Both drugs work by inhibiting the activity of CGRP, reducing the pain and other symptoms associated with migraines.
  • For Acute Treatment: Nurtec and Ubrelvy are both approved for acute treatment of migraine attacks. They are intended to be taken at the onset of a migraine to provide quick relief.
  • Non-Triptan Alternative: Unlike traditional triptan-based medications, Nurtec and Ubrelvy provide a safe alternative for patients who can’t take triptans due to cardiovascular risks.
  • Oral Medications: Both medications are taken orally. Nurtec comes as an orally disintegrating tablet that dissolves on the tongue, while Ubrelvy is available as a regular oral tablet.
  • Minimal Side Effects: The most common side effects for both medications include nausea, drowsiness, and mild dry mouth.

Can You Take Ubrelvy and Nurtec on the Same Day?

Though both medications are designed to treat migraines, they should not be taken on the same day. Nurtec and Ubrelvy both block CGRP, and using them together could potentially increase the risk of side effects or lead to drug interactions. It’s important to choose one medication per migraine episode and consult your healthcare provider about which treatment plan works best for you.

Compare Nurtec and Ubrelvy for migraine relief and savings

Key Differences Between Nurtec and Ubrelvy

Despite their similarities, there are notable differences between Nurtec and Ubrelvy in terms of their dosing flexibility, duration of action, and FDA-approved uses.

1. FDA-Approved Uses

  • Nurtec ODT is approved for both the acute treatment of migraines and as a preventive treatment to reduce the frequency of migraines. For preventive use, it can be taken every other day.
  • Ubrelvy is approved only for acute migraine treatment and is not indicated for preventive use. It is used only when a migraine occurs, not as a regular preventive measure.

2. Dosing Flexibility

  • Nurtec ODT is available as a 75 mg orally disintegrating tablet, which can be taken with or without water. It is a single-dose medication, meaning you only take one tablet per migraine episode.
  • Ubrelvy offers more flexible dosing, available in 50 mg and 100 mg tablets. You can take a second dose if needed two hours after the first dose, but no more than 200 mg should be taken in 24 hours.

3. Preventive Treatment

  • Nurtec stands out because it can be used for both acute treatment and migraine prevention. By taking it regularly, some patients can reduce the frequency of their migraine attacks.
  • Ubrelvy is strictly for acute treatment and cannot be used preventively.

4. Onset and Duration of Relief

  • Nurtec provides rapid relief, with many patients experiencing improvement in their migraine symptoms within one hour of taking the medication. Its effects can last up to 48 hours, reducing the likelihood of a rebound attack.
  • Ubrelvy also provides relief within about one hour, but for patients who need continued relief, a second dose may be required after two hours.
Save money on Nurtec and Ubrelvy migraine treatments with discounts

Cost-Saving Options: Coupons and Assistance Programs

For many patients, the cost of migraine medication can be a barrier to effective treatment, especially without insurance. Both Nurtec and Ubrelvy offer savings programs to make the medications more affordable.

Nurtec Savings

Eligible patients can apply for $0 copay cards through the Nurtec website, which can bring the cost down significantly if your insurance covers the medication. Those without insurance may still qualify for discount programs directly from the manufacturer.

Ubrelvy Savings

Similarly, Ubrelvy offers copay savings cards that can lower the cost to as little as $10 per month for those who qualify. Patients without insurance should inquire about prescription discount programs or manufacturer coupons that can reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

For both medications, you can explore GoodRx, which provides additional discounts on prescription medications at local pharmacies. Savings from these programs can dramatically reduce the cost, making treatment more accessible.

Which Medication is Right for You?

Choosing between Nurtec and Ubrelvy depends on your individual migraine treatment needs:

  • If you need a medication that can provide both acute relief and preventive care, Nurtec may be the best option. It allows patients to reduce the frequency of migraines while also treating attacks as they occur.
  • If you prefer more dosing flexibility for acute treatment and want the option of taking a second dose if your symptoms persist, Ubrelvy might be a better fit for you.

Conclusion: Nurtec vs. Ubrelvy

Both Nurtec and Ubrelvy offer effective migraine relief, but they differ in terms of usage, dosing flexibility, and preventive benefits. For patients who need preventive treatment in addition to acute relief, Nurtec may be the better option. For those who prefer a flexible dosing schedule, Ubrelvy is a solid choice.

Cost-saving options are available for both medications, and you can use manufacturer coupons or assistance programs to reduce the financial burden. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for your migraine management.

For more information about Nurtec, visit the official Nurtec website. Similarly, you can learn more about Ubrelvy on the Ubrelvy website.