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Drug vs. Drug

Qulipta vs. Nurtec: Differences, similarities & side effects

Compare the cost, indications, side effects, and more to see which migraine medication is right for you
Gerardo Sison medical writer headshot
By | Jun. 7, 2024
Two white pills with "vs." between them: Qulipta vs. Nurtec: Differences, similarities & side effects

Key takeaways

  • Qulipta and Nurtec ODT are CGRP receptor antagonists used to manage migraines. Qulipta is approved to prevent episodic and chronic migraines, while Nurtec ODT also treats acute attacks.

  • Qulipta contains atogepant and is taken daily as an oral tablet, whereas Nurtec ODT contains rimegepant and is an orally disintegrating tablet used every other day for migraine prevention. 

  • Both medications may cause mild side effects like nausea and fatigue, and they share similar drug interactions. 

  • It’s important to consult a healthcare provider to choose the most effective and appropriate treatment option.

In this article:

Migraines affect millions in the United States, and finding the right medication can be key for those who regularly experience them. Two relatively new treatment options to manage migraines are Qulipta (atogepant) and Nurtec ODT (rimegepant). These migraine medications, which belong to a class of drugs known as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists, may be useful options to prevent migraines. 

Although both medications are part of the same drug class, they may differ in various ways, including active ingredients, side effects, cost, and insurance coverage. Knowing the similarities and differences may help you understand your potential treatment options. It’s important to discuss migraine treatment options with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication. 

Read on to learn more about the differences and similarities between Qulipta and Nurtec ODT. 

Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT: Key differences

The main difference between Qulipta and Nurtec ODT is that they contain different active ingredients: Qulipta contains atogepant while Nurtec ODT contains rimegepant. 

Both Qulipta and Nurtec ODT target a protein molecule called calcitonin gene-related peptide, which is believed to play a role in migraine headaches. While both Qulipta and Nurtec have similar mechanisms of action and are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for migraine treatment, they have distinct applications: Qulipta is mainly used for the prevention of episodic migraines, whereas Nurtec can both prevent and treat acute migraine episodes. 

The two medications also differ in their dosing and forms. Qulipta is available as an oral tablet that patients take every day to prevent migraines. In contrast, Nurtec ODT is an orally disintegrating tablet that dissolves on or under the tongue, which is useful for immediate relief during a migraine attack. Nurtec ODT is taken every other day instead of every day for preventive treatment.

 

Compare Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT key differences
Qulipta Nurtec ODT
Drug class CGRP receptor antagonists, gepants  CGRP receptor antagonists, gepants 
Brand/generic status Brand Brand
What is the generic name? Atogepant Rimegepant
What form(s) does the drug come in? Tablet Tablet, orally disintegrating
What is the standard dosage? Preventive treatment of migraine: 10 mg, 30 mg, or 60 mg once daily Treatment of acute migraine: 75 mg as needed

Prevention of episodic migraine: 75 mg every other day

Maximum dosage of 75 mg per day and no more than 18 doses in a 30-day period
How long is the typical treatment? Long-term Long-term
Who typically uses the medication? Adults Adults 

 

Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT: Conditions treated

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT are prescription medications used for migraine management. Qulipta is FDA approved for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults, meaning it is designed to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks before they start. It is also approved to prevent chronic migraines.

Nurtec ODT is also approved for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults. In addition, it can provide relief during acute migraine attacks. Nurtec ODT is not approved to prevent chronic migraines. 

For reference, the difference between episodic and chronic migraines is that episodic migraines occur less frequently, typically fewer than 15 days per month, while chronic migraines occur 15 or more days per month.

Compare conditions treated by Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT
Condition Qulipta Nurtec ODT
Acute treatment of migraine with or without aura No Yes
Preventive treatment of episodic migraines Yes Yes
Preventive treatment of chronic migraines Yes No

 

Is Nurtec ODT better than Qulipta?

The better treatment option will depend on its purpose. Nurtec ODT is a better option for relief from acute migraines, while Qulipta may be better for preventing chronic migraines. However, both Nurtec ODT and Qulipta are effective options for preventing episodic migraines.

A comparative study analyzing clinical trials with Qulipta (atogepant) and Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) found that Qulipta(60 mg taken daily) was more effective than Nurtec ODT (75 mg taken every other day) for migraine prevention. Specifically, those taking Qulipta experienced a greater average reduction in monthly migraine days by about 1.65 days compared to those on Nurtec ODT. However, both medications were similarly safe and well-tolerated by participants.

The most effective medication will depend on your overall health condition. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the best option. 

Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT: Insurance coverage and cost comparison

Insurance coverage for Qulipta and Nurtec ODT can vary based on the insurance plan. The landscape of coverage can be complex as some insurers may cover one medication but not the other or require specific documentation of the necessity for coverage. Medicare Part D plans also differ, with coverage dependent on the specific plan.

Retail costs can also vary by pharmacy and location for those without insurance. The average retail price of Qulipta is almost $1,500 for a 30-day supply. In contrast, the average retail price of Nurtec ODT is around $1,300 for a package of eight tablets for acute migraine treatment. If you’re taking Nurtec ODT every other day for migraine prevention, this cost can add up.

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT are brand-name medications that may be more expensive than generic alternatives. Manufacturer coupons and patient assistance programs may be available to help cover out-of-pocket costs. Patients can also reduce their costs with prescription drug coupons like those offered by SingleCare.

 

Compare coverage & cost of Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT
Qulipta Nurtec ODT
Typically covered by insurance? Yes Yes
Typically covered by Medicare Part D? No Yes
Quantity 30, 60 mg tablets 8, 75 mg tablets
Average retail price $1,489 $1,354
SingleCare price $882 $850

 

Nurtec ODT vs. Qulipta side effects

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT cause similar side effects. The most common side effects of Qulipta are nausea, constipation, and fatigue or drowsiness. Similarly, Nurtec ODT commonly causes nausea but also carries a risk of stomach pain or indigestion. These side effects are often mild and may decrease as the body adjusts to the medication.

While neither medication typically causes severe side effects, it’s important to be aware that any medication has the potential for more serious adverse reactions. Nurtec ODT and Qulipta carry a risk of allergic reactions. Report any severe or persistent side effects to a healthcare provider.

 

Compare side effects of Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT
Qulipta Nurtec ODT
Side Effect Applicable? Frequency Applicable? Frequency
Nausea Yes 5% Yes 2%
Stomach pain/indigestion No – Yes 2%
Constipation Yes 6% No –
Fatigue Yes 4% No –
Decreased appetite Yes 2% No –
Dizziness Yes 2% No –
Frequency is not based on data from a head-to-head trial. This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your healthcare provider to learn more.
Source: DailyMed (Qulipta), DailyMed (Nurtec ODT)

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT drug interactions

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT are metabolized or processed in the liver by CYP3A4 enzymes. Known interactions include a potential increase in side effects when taken with other medications that affect liver enzymes, specifically CYP3A4 inhibitors. When combined with strong CYP3A4 inducers, the effectiveness of these medications may decrease, reducing their ability to prevent migraines.

In addition, Qulipta is processed by the OATP transport system, while Nurtec ODT is processed by the P-GP transport system. Medications that affect these processes can also change how Qulipta and Nurtec ODT work. 

Certain antifungals, antivirals, and antibiotics may affect how these drugs are processed. Before starting treatment, notify your healthcare provider about any medications being taken, including over-the-counter medicines and dietary supplements.

 

Compare Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT drug interactions
Drug Drug Class Qulipta Nurtec ODT
Nizoral (ketoconazole) 

Diflucan (fluconazole) 

Vfend (voriconazole)

 Antifungal Yes Yes
Norvir (ritonavir) 

Reyataz (atazanavir)

 Antiviral Yes Yes
Ketek (telithromycin) 

Biaxin (clarithromycin) 

Rifadin (rifampin)

 Antibiotic Yes Yes
Tegretol (carbamazepine) 

Dilantin (phenytoin) 

Luminal (phenobarbital)

 Anticonvulsant Yes Yes
Consult your healthcare provider for other possible drug interactions.

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT drug warnings

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT should be used with caution in people with a history of hypersensitivity reactions. These reactions might include hives, swelling, or breathing difficulties. It is recommended to monitor for signs of hypersensitivity, especially after the first dose. 

Both medications also have warnings against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding—consulting a healthcare professional is crucial if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. 

As Qulipta and Nurtec ODT are processed in the liver, they should be avoided in people with severe liver problems. Otherwise, there may be an increased risk of side effects with either drug. Tell your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you may have before taking Qulipta or Nurtec ODT.