Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) and Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) are prescription medications approved for the treatment of migraine episodes. Ubrelvy is supplied as a tablet that you swallow, while Nurtec ODT is an orally disintegrating tablet that dissolves on or beneath your tongue. At this time, neither medication is available in a generic form.
Many people who experience migraine wonder about using Nurtec and Ubrelvy together for better symptom control. Although both medications are effective options for acute migraine relief, they are generally not prescribed at the same time. Below, you’ll find a detailed comparison of how these drugs are similar and how they differ, including uses, dosing, safety considerations, and cost factors.
For a deeper comparison of these treatments, you can also explore Ubrelvy vs Nurtec which is better. You can also review comprehensive medication summaries in this Ubrelvy overview and this Nurtec ODT overview.
Do Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT have generic versions?
The list below outlines whether either medication is currently offered as a generic. (A generic drug contains an exact copy of the active ingredient found in a brand-name medication.)
- Ubrelvy: Available as a generic: no Active ingredient: ubrogepant
- Nurtec ODT: Available as a generic: no Active ingredient: rimegepant
Because both drugs are brand-name only, out-of-pocket costs may be higher compared with medications that have generic equivalents.
What are Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT used for?
The table below summarizes the approved uses for each medication. Both drugs target migraine, but they differ slightly in how they are used.
| Use | Ubrelvy | Nurtec ODT |
|---|---|---|
| immediate treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults | ✓ | ✓ |
| prevention of episodic migraine in adults | ✓ |
Ubrelvy is approved only for the immediate (acute) treatment of migraine attacks. Nurtec ODT, in addition to treating migraine episodes as they occur, is also approved for the prevention of episodic migraine. If you’re unsure which option aligns best with your migraine pattern or frequency, your doctor can help tailor a treatment plan.
How do dosage and administration compare for Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT?
Below is a general overview of dosing and administration for migraine treatment. Keep in mind that Nurtec ODT is also approved for prevention of episodic migraine, but that preventive dosing schedule is not discussed here. For full dosing details, consult the Ubrelvy dosage and Nurtec ODT dosage resources.
Dosage for migraine treatment
The following table outlines recommended dosages for the immediate treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. Strengths are listed in milligrams (mg).
| Ubrelvy for migraine treatment | Nurtec ODT for migraine treatment | |
|---|---|---|
| Forms | tablet that you swallow | orally disintegrating tablet (a tablet that dissolves on or under your tongue) |
| Strengths | 50 mg and 100 mg | 75 mg |
| Dose | 1 tablet | 1 tablet |
| How often to take | as needed at the start of migraine symptoms, with a second dose 2 hours later if symptoms persist | as needed at the start of migraine symptoms |
| Maximum dose in 24 hours | 200 mg | 75 mg |
Ubrelvy may be repeated once after 2 hours if migraine symptoms continue, while Nurtec ODT has a lower maximum dose within a 24-hour period. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions.
What are the side effects of Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT?
Like all prescription medications, Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT may cause side effects. These can range from mild and temporary to more serious, though significant reactions are uncommon.
For more detailed safety information, refer to the Ubrelvy side effects and Nurtec ODT side effects resources.
Mild side effects
The table below highlights examples of mild side effects reported with each medication.
| Ubrelvy | Nurtec ODT | |
|---|---|---|
| dry mouth | ✓ | |
| nausea | ✓ | ✓ |
| sleepiness | ✓ | |
| abdominal pain | ✓ | |
| indigestion | ✓ |
This list does not include every possible mild side effect. For complete safety details, review the Ubrelvy prescribing information and Nurtec ODT prescribing information.
Serious side effects
Although uncommon, serious side effects can occur with either medication. Discuss your individual risk factors with your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.
In rare instances, allergic reactions have been reported with both drugs, as described below.
ALLERGIC REACTIONUbrelvy or Nurtec ODT may trigger an allergic reaction in some individuals. Allergic reactions were not specifically reported in studies of Ubrelvy, though cases have been documented after approval. In clinical trials of Nurtec ODT, allergic reactions were reported but were rare.
Symptoms can vary from mild to severe.
What might help
If you notice mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a slight rash, contact your doctor promptly. They may recommend treatment to ease your symptoms and advise whether you should continue the medication.If you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. These symptoms can be life threatening and require urgent medical attention.
If your doctor determines that you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Ubrelvy or Nurtec ODT, they may recommend switching to an alternative therapy.
FAQ about Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT
Below are answers to common questions, including whether taking Nurtec and Ubrelvy together is appropriate.
Can I take Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT together?
In most cases, Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT are not used together. Both medications belong to the same class of drugs known as calcitonin gene-related peptide antagonists. Using them at the same time may raise the risk of side effects without providing additional therapeutic benefit.
If you are considering Nurtec and Ubrelvy together because your migraine symptoms are difficult to control, speak with your doctor. They can evaluate your migraine frequency, severity, and treatment history to determine the safest and most effective strategy.
Both medications treat acute migraine attacks, and Nurtec ODT also has an approved role in prevention. Your healthcare provider can help select the most suitable option for your specific needs.
How do Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT compare with Qulipta?
Ubrelvy, Nurtec ODT, and Qulipta are all calcitonin gene-related peptide antagonists. While they share a similar mechanism of action, they contain different active ingredients.
Ubrelvy contains ubrogepant. Nurtec ODT contains rimegepant, and Qulipta contains atogepant.
Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT are both approved for the immediate treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. Nurtec ODT and Qulipta are approved for migraine prevention.
Your pharmacist or physician can provide personalized guidance on how these medications compare in terms of effectiveness, safety, and convenience.
How effective are Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT?
Both Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT have been shown in clinical studies to be effective for the immediate treatment of migraine. Research published in their respective Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT prescribing information supports their use for acute migraine relief. Additionally, the American Headache Society includes both medications in its treatment recommendations.
Keep in mind that individual response can vary. Factors such as migraine triggers, overall health, and concurrent medications may influence how well a treatment works for you. Discuss your expectations and prior treatment experiences with your doctor to determine the best fit.
What do Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT cost?
Cost considerations may play a role when choosing between these medications. Visit Optum Perks to review price estimates for Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT using available coupons. (Optum Perks is a sister site of HealthEH.) These coupons cannot be combined with insurance copays or benefits.
Your actual out-of-pocket cost will depend on your insurance coverage, pharmacy, and prescribed treatment plan. Since neither medication has a generic version, they may be more expensive than generic alternatives.
For additional savings information, review the Ubrelvy cost and Nurtec ODT cost articles.
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What are the warnings for Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT?
Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT may not be appropriate for everyone. Certain medical conditions and health factors can affect whether these drugs are safe for you.
Before starting Ubrelvy or Nurtec ODT, discuss the following with your doctor:
- Warnings for both Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT: if you’ve had an allergic reaction to either drug or any of its ingredients if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant if you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed if you have a liver or kidney problem if you have high blood pressure if you have Raynaud phenomenon
For more detailed information, see this Ubrelvy overview and this Nurtec ODT overview.
Can I switch between Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT?
The short answer: Yes, switching may be possible.
Details: Since both medications are approved for treating migraine with or without aura, your doctor may recommend transitioning from one to the other if needed. The decision will depend on how well your current treatment works and whether you experience side effects.
Reminder: Do not stop taking your prescribed medication or switch treatments without consulting your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: HealthEH has made every effort to ensure that the information presented here is accurate, comprehensive, and current. However, this article should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication. Drug information is subject to change and may not include all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of specific warnings does not mean that a drug or combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for every patient or situation.
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