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A Real-World Study of CGRP Monoclonal Antibodies for Migraine: Long-Term Effectiveness and Treatment Adherence

Suzuki K, Suzuki S, Kobayashi S, Shioda M, Fujita H, Haruyama Y, Hirata K

European journal of neurology, 2026

307 participants

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies (CGRP mAbs) are effective for migraine prophylaxis; however, real-world evidence beyond 1 year remains limited.

METHODS: This single-center, retrospective observational cohort study in Japan included 307 migraine patients who received CGRP mAbs (erenumab, galcanezumab, or fremanezumab) for ≥ 3 months between April 2022 and February 2025 for an effectiveness analysis. Outcomes included monthly migraine days (MMDs), ≥ 50% responder rates, adverse events (AEs), and treatment persistence. Patients were categorized as nonresponders or responders: early (≥ 50% MMD reduction by Month 3), late (Months 4-5), and ultralate (after Month 6).

RESULTS: Significant MMD reductions were observed across 24 months. The ≥ 50% response rates were 45.9%, 57.0%, 63.6%, and 71.0% at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. AEs occurred in 12.6% and were mild. Early responders had the lowest baseline MMDs and Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) scores; nonresponders had the highest baseline MMDs and MIDAS scores and the highest rates of comorbid medication overuse headache (MOH) and psychiatric disorders. Compared with early responders, late and ultralate responders had higher baseline MMDs, higher MIDAS scores, higher rates of MOH, and more prior preventive failures. Additionally, ultralate responders presented the highest rates of photophobia and pulsatile headache and the fewest psychiatric comorbidities. Effectiveness appeared…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 307 participants or records.

How the five levels of evidence work. The level is assigned automatically from the abstract and can be wrong, so check the paper.

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