This website is intended for patients prescribed Emgality® (galcanezumab) in the UK only. Side effects reporting and safety information can be found at the bottom of the page.
Here are some of the more common questions we get asked by patients when using Emgality®. This information does not replace the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) and Instructions for Use (IFU) that come with your medication. Please read the PIL and IFU carefully. If you have any further questions or something isn’t quite clear, please contact your prescriber for support.
Emgality is a once-monthly, self-injected medicine that is used to help prevent migraine. It contains the active substance galcanezumab and is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection.
The active ingredient in Emgality, galcanezumab, is a type of antibody that binds to a substance in the body called CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide).
CGRP levels are raised during a migraine attack. By attaching to CGRP, Emgality prevents it from working, which may help reduce how often migraines occur
You inject Emgality using a pre-filled pen.
Starting dose (Month 1): 240 mg – given as two 120 mg injections
Ongoing treatment (Month 2 onwards): One 120 mg injection per month
Injections can be given in the abdomen (at least 5 cm away from the belly button), thigh, or – with help – in the upper arm or buttocks. .
Yes. Emgality is designed to be self-injected. A full step-by-step guide is included in your pack, and a video demonstration is available here
If you miss a dose, inject it as soon as possible. Then continue with the next dose one month after that date. If you’re not sure what to do, ask your healthcare professional.
If you take more Emgality® than recommended, or you’re concerned, contact your healthcare professional for advice
Possible side effects
Some people may get side effects, but many don’t. These are the ones you might notice:
Very common (more than 1 in 10 people):
Soreness, redness, swelling, itching, or bruising where the injection was given.
Common (up to 1 in 10 people):
Feeling dizzy, constipation, itching, or a skin rash.
Uncommon (up to 1 in 100 people):
Raised, itchy patches on the skin (sometimes called hives).
Rare but serious side effects
Very rarely (up to 1 in 1,000 people), some people can have a serious allergic reaction.
Call 999 or go to A&E straight away if you notice:
Trouble breathing or swallowing
Feeling faint, dizzy, or lightheaded
Swelling of your face, mouth, or throat
Severe itching with a red rash
Please consult your healthcare professional before combining Emgality® with other treatments.
Pregnancy: Preferably avoid use, as effects are unknown
Breastfeeding: Talk to your healthcare professional. A joint decision should be made on whether to breastfeed while using Emgality.
Store in a refrigerator (2–8°C)
Can be kept at room temperature (up to 30°C) for max 7 days
Protect from light
Discard if pen is damaged or the solution is cloudy.
Dispose of the pen as directed by your healthcare professional and in accordance with local regulations.
Emgality® is not suitable for everyone and may cause side effects. Speak to your healthcare professional if you have concerns, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or develop any unusual symptoms. Click here for full safety information.
