Migraine Medication Linked to Pregnancy Risk

A new study identifies a potential increase in spontaneous abortion risk for patients taking anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Pregnancy

Macro photograph of a glass specimen container holding a crystalline structure in a sterile laboratory setting. — A recent study found that anti-CGRP monoclonal antibody use during early pregnancy is associated with a 42% higher risk of spontaneous abortion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Data from the 2018 to 2021 period indicates that anti-CGRP monoclonal antibody use during early pregnancy is associated with a 42% higher risk of spontaneous abortion. The analysis involved 7,579 singleton pregnancies among women with pregestational migraine.

Why it matters

The findings are significant because CGRP plays a critical role in vascular regulation, embryo implantation, and placental development during pregnancy. Understanding these risks helps clinicians and patients make informed decisions about migraine management.

The study recorded an overall spontaneous abortion rate of 24.6% across 1,862 cases. Researchers analyzed 7,119 women who had pregestational migraine throughout the four-year observation window.

The players

AM-PREGNANT cohort

This study population was constructed using the Merative MarketScan commercial database to analyze pregnancy outcomes.

The details

Researchers utilized the AM-PREGNANT cohort to compare outcomes between those exposed to anti-CGRP medications and those prescribed propranolol, which showed no increased risk. The study focused on patients who received at least one prescription during their pregnancy.

2018 marked the first approval of a monoclonal antibody for migraine prevention.
The study analyzed patient data collected from 2018 to 2021.

Culture Shift

The analysis reflects a broader movement toward utilizing longitudinal claims data to monitor medication safety in understudied populations. This approach helps bridge the gap where clinical trial data is often missing for pregnant patients.

Pregnant individuals managing migraine should consult their healthcare provider to review their current medication regimen and explore safer alternatives. This study highlights the importance of discussing all prescriptions with a specialist when planning or during pregnancy.

The takeaway

Patients who rely on preventive migraine treatments should prioritize evaluating their options with a physician if they are pregnant or trying to conceive. While propranolol was shown to have no increased risk, any changes to a medication plan must be managed by a medical professional.