By Lindsay Videnieks, JD, and Katie M. Golden, PP (professional patient)

For three decades, those living with migraine disease demanded and waited for new treatment options tailored to their disease, instead of being prescribed off-label medications developed for other diseases. That was until 2018, which proved to be a pivotal year in migraine and headache treatment with the release of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies for the prevention of migraine. In 2019, new classes of acute (or rescue) medications taken at the onset of an attack provided more hope to solving the secrets of the migraine brain. However, FDA approval of these innovative medications doesn’t mean immediate access for patients, even if prescribed by their doctor. This was a moment that inspired strong action within the community.