Modelling the anti-migraine effects of BIBN 4096 BS: a new calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist.

Background and objective Migraine attacks are associated with release of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) from trigeminal nerves. BIBN 4096 BS is the first CGRP receptor antagonist tested in humans showing response rates similar to those reported for triptans, together with very good safety and tolerability profiles. The objective of the current study is to develop a population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model resembling the mechanism of action of BIBN 4096 BS, and to extract by model-based simulations dosage formulations and pharmacodynamic properties that can assist in the development of CGRP receptor antagonists.