6 Qulipta Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Migraine headaches affect millions of people around the world. And avoiding migraine triggers, such as stress, bright lights, or loud noises, isn't always enough to prevent them.

If you have frequent migraines, your healthcare provider may talk to you about trying a preventative migraine medication to prevent migraines over time. Qulipta (atogepant) is a convenient, once-daily oral tablet they may recommend.

Qulipta belongs to a group of medications called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists (“CGRP blockers”). It works by interfering with CGRP — a protein that causes blood vessels in the brain to swell, leading to pain and other migraine symptoms.

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Qulipta is generally an effective treatment, and it’s well tolerated by most people. But like any medication, it has a few possible side effects.

Qulipta side effects at a glance

Most of Qulipta’s side effects are mild. They also tend to go away as your body gets used to the medication.

Qulita’s most common side effects were reported by at least 4% of people in its initial clinical trials, and they include:

• Nausea

• Constipation

• Fatigue

Serious side effects aren’t likely with Qulipta. But they can still happen. Less common side effects include:

• A smaller appetite

• Body weight changes

• Dizziness

• Allergic reactions

We’ll discuss six notable Quilipta side effects and how to manage them below.

1. Nausea

Nausea was the most common Qulipta side effect in clinical trials. Up to 9% of people experienced nausea symptoms while taking it, and it's more likely with higher daily doses. Thankfully, it tends to be mild in severity and resolve on its own.

If you experience nausea while taking Qulipta, a few things might help. This includes taking your daily dose with food and staying well hydrated. Temporarily eating bland foods and smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day might also bring relief.

If you're still feeling nauseated, you can consider trying an over-the-counter (OTC) nausea medication, such as bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol). It can help provide relief in the short term. Other OTC options are also available.

Keep in mind: Qulipta isn't the only possible cause of nausea. Nausea is a common symptom of migraines. Let your healthcare provider know if your nausea doesn't go away or becomes overwhelming at any point. They can help you determine if Qulipta is contributing to your symptoms. If needed, they can switch you to a different dose of Qulipta or another migraine medication altogether.

2. Constipation

Constipation is another Qulipta side effect you could experience. Like nausea, it's more common with higher doses and should improve over time.

If you experience constipation after taking Qulipta, there are several ways to manage it. Small dietary changes may help with milder cases of constipation. Try to eat foods high in fiber, such as oats, broccoli, and lentils. And if your migraine symptoms will allow for it, try to stay hydrated and exercise regularly.

A consistent bathroom routine can also help your body know when it’s time to go. If possible, try going to the bathroom around the same time each day. You can also try an OTC laxative like polyethylene glycol (Miralax, Glycolax) or bisacodyl (Dulcolax) when needed. But, these medications should generally only be used for a couple of days. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about the best and safest laxative for your symptoms.

3. Fatigue

Some people taking Qulipta report feeling more fatigued than normal. Feeling sleepy is also possible while taking it. These side effects are most likely to happen when you're first starting the medication or after a dose increase. They should resolve on their own.

Until you know how Qulipta makes you feel, use caution when participating in activities that require focus, such as driving a car. And if you feel like you need an energy boost, a few tried-and-true methods can help make a positive difference. Staying active, eating a well-balanced diet, and getting enough sleep are great places to start.

Let your healthcare provider know if your fatigue is bothersome or worsens while taking Qulipta. They may suggest another migraine prevention option or an adjustment to your current regimen.

4. Dizziness

Dizziness is also possible with Qulipta. It doesn’t happen too often, but it’s most noticeable when starting the medication or after raising your dose.

To manage problems from dizziness, try to move slowly to prevent falls. It also helps to avoid sudden movements or positional changes. And if you’ve been told to watch your blood pressure or blood glucose (sugar) in the past, it may be worthwhile to double check that your readings aren’t too low.

Keep in mind: Dizziness is another possible symptom of migraines. So it may not entirely be due to Qulipta. Again, let your healthcare provider know if your dizziness is severe or gets worse. They can offer personalized tips for relief.

5. Appetite changes

In certain cases, Qulipta may cause a smaller appetite and unintentional weight loss. Thankfully, this isn’t common. And any appetite changes should subside with time.

In the meantime, you can try eating smaller meals throughout the day and drinking liquids only after or between meals — not with meals. Getting some calories and nutrients is important, even if you have little-to-no appetite. Foods like toast, smoothies, and soup may be easier to tolerate than other foods you may be accustomed to eating.

If you're not hungry for several days or are losing weight without trying, contact your provider. They can give you tips on maintaining your body weight. In some cases, they may refer you to a dietitian.

6. Allergic reactions

Allergic reactions aren’t a true medication side effect. But they’re a risk that’s possible with any medication, including Qulipta. These reactions can range from mild to serious.

Mild symptoms of an allergic reaction can include itching and hives. More serious symptoms can include swelling of the face, lips, or tongue and trouble breathing. Symptoms like these can show up within minutes to days of starting Qulipta.

Stop taking Qulipta and go to the nearest emergency room right away if you have trouble breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. Contacting your healthcare provider is still a good idea if your symptoms are mild. They can make sure it's safe for you to continue Qulipta.

When to contact a healthcare provider about Qulipta side effects

Most Qulipta side effects are mild. But if you experience bothersome Qulipta side effects at any point, talk about them with your healthcare provider. You should also talk to them if you feel like Qulipta isn’t adequately preventing your migraines. In some cases, they may recommend switching to a different dose of Qulipta or trying a new migraine medication.

If you have trouble breathing or experience swelling of the face, lips, and tongue, call 911 or seek immediate emergency care. These may be symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.

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Written by:

Nikki Javit, PharmD

Nikki Javit, PharmD, is a clinical pharmacist with certifications in international travel medicine, immunization delivery, and pharmacogenomics. She received her bachelor’s of science in biology from Indiana University Bloomington and her doctor of pharmacy degree from Butler University.

Edited by:

Joshua Murdock, PharmD, BCBBS

Joshua Murdock, PharmD, BCBBS, is a licensed pharmacist in Arizona, Colorado, and Rhode Island. He has worked in the pharmacy industry for more than 10 years and currently serves as a pharmacy editor for GoodRx.

Reviewed by:

Christina Aungst, PharmD

Christina Aungst, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She began writing for GoodRx Health in 2019, transitioning from freelance writer to editor in 2021.

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