Qulipta vs. Nurtec: Differences and similarities explained

In this article:

• Key differences
• Conditions treated
• Is Nurtec ODT better than Qulipta?
• Coverage and cost
• Side effects
• Drug interactions
• Drug warnings

In this article

• Key differences
• Conditions treated
• Is Nurtec ODT better than Qulipta?
• Coverage and cost
• Side effects
• Drug interactions
• Drug warnings

Although migraines are common and sometimes hard to manage, relatively new treatment options like Qulipta (atogepant) and Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) can help make life easier. Both help prevent episodic migraines and work by blocking calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a protein involved in inflammation in the brain. They’re both CGRP receptor antagonists, but they may differ in approved uses, dosages, and potential costs or side effects. 

Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT: Key differences

Both migraine medications have similar mechanisms of action and are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The main difference between Qulipta and Nurtec ODT is that they contain different active ingredients: Qulipta contains atogepant, while Nurtec ODT contains rimegepant. 

In addition, they differ in their dosing and forms. Qulipta is a regular oral tablet that’s taken daily to prevent migraines. On the other hand, Nurtec ODT is an orally disintegrating tablet that melts on or under the tongue and is taken as needed to relieve a migraine attack. It can also be taken every other day for preventive treatment. 

Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT: Conditions treated

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT are prescription options used for people living with migraine headaches, but they’re FDA approved for slightly different uses. 

Qulipta is approved to help prevent both episodic and chronic migraines in adults. It’s taken every day to reduce the number of migraine days per month, whether a person has less frequent migraines (episodic) or more frequent ones (chronic).

Nurtec ODT is approved to provide relief during acute migraine attacks. It’s also approved to prevent episodic migraines when taken every other day. However, it’s not approved to prevent chronic migraines.

The difference between episodic and chronic migraines is that episodic migraines occur less frequently, typically fewer than 15 days per month, while chronic migraines occur 15 or more days per month.

Is Nurtec ODT better than Qulipta?

The better treatment option will depend on what it’s being used for:

• Nurtec ODT may be the better choice if you want something that can provide quick relief during a migraine attack or allow you to prevent episodic migraines. 
• Qulipta may be a better option if you’re looking for daily prevention of migraines, especially if you experience chronic migraines (15 or more days per month).

When it comes to migraine prevention, clinical trials suggest that Qulipta is more effective than Nurtec ODT. On average, those taking Qulipta once daily had around 1.65 fewer monthly migraine days than those taking Nurtec every other day. Both medications were similar in safety and side effects.

The most effective medication will depend on a person’s overall health condition. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the best option. 

Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) and Zavzpret (zavegepant) are other gepants approved to relieve migraine attacks, while Reyvow (lasmiditan) is a non-CGRP option for the same purpose. Other potential options to prevent migraines include Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) injections or CGRP monoclonal antibodies such as Aimovig (erenumab), Ajovy (fremanezumab), Emgality (galcanezumab), and Vyepti (eptinezumab).

Qulipta vs. Nurtec ODT: Insurance coverage and cost comparison

Insurance coverage for Qulipta and Nurtec ODT depends on the specific plan. Some plans may cover one but not the other, and many often require prior authorization or proof of medical necessity. Medicare Part D coverage also varies by plan, so it’s best to check specific benefits directly with the insurer.

For those without insurance, retail costs can vary by pharmacy, location, and dosage. The average retail price of Qulipta can be over $1,500 for a 30-day supply, while the average retail price of Nurtec ODT is almost $1,400 for a package of eight tablets (for migraine attacks). If you’re taking Nurtec ODT every other day for migraine prevention, the costs can add up.

Since both are brand-name medications with no generics available, they can be more costly than other migraine treatments. Prescription discount cards, such as those from SingleCare, may help reduce out-of-pocket costs at the pharmacy.

Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing in ZIP code 23666 as of 10/20/2025. Click the link under “See our lowest price” to see the latest drug prices.

Nurtec ODT vs. Qulipta side effects

The most common side effect of Qulipta and Nurtec ODT is nausea. However, Qulipta is more likely to cause constipation and fatigue, while Nurtec ODT more often causes stomach pain and indigestion. 

Side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, high blood pressure, and a circulation problem called Raynaud’s phenomenon, are possible. 

Frequency is not based on data from a head-to-head trial. This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your healthcare provider to learn more.

Source: DailyMed (Qulipta), DailyMed (Nurtec ODT)

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT drug interactions

Both Qulipta and Nurtec ODT are processed by liver enzymes, mainly CYP3A4. Medications that affect the CYP3A4 enzyme can affect how these migraine medications work. For example, taking them with certain drugs can increase the risk of side effects or make them less effective. Examples include:

• CYP3A4 inhibitors: These drugs block the CYP3A4 enzyme, which slows the processing of Qulipta and Nurtec ODT and increases the risk of side effects. Examples include Nizoral (ketoconazole), Sporanox (itraconazole), Norvir (ritonavir), and Biaxin (clarithromycin). 
• CYP3A4 inducers: These drugs speed up the CYP3A4 enzyme, which causes Qulipta and Nurtec ODT to break down faster and reduces how well they work. Examples include Rifadin (rifampin), Tegretol (carbamazepine), Dilantin (phenytoin), and St. John’s wort.

In addition, Qulipta is processed by the OATP transport system, while Nurtec ODT is processed by the P-GP transport system. Medications that block these pathways can increase blood levels of these migraine drugs and their potential side effects. 

Consult a healthcare provider about any medications being taken, including over-the-counter medicines and dietary supplements, before starting a new drug.

Consult your healthcare provider for other possible drug interactions.

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT drug warnings

Qulipta and Nurtec ODT can cause allergic reactions in some people, with symptoms like hives, swelling, or trouble breathing. Reactions are more likely to happen with the first dose, so it’s important to watch for these signs and get medical help if they occur. 

Neither medication is typically recommended while pregnant or breastfeeding, although animal studies suggest Nurtec has a lower risk of problems. Those who are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare provider for the best treatment option. 

Both drugs are broken down by the liver and should not be used in those with serious liver problems. Otherwise, there may be an increased risk of side effects with either drug. It’s important to tell a healthcare provider about any medical conditions before taking Qulipta or Nurtec ODT.