Nurtec ODT Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Call Your Doctor

Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) has one of the cleaner side effect profiles of any migraine medication on the market — in clinical trials, its side effect rates were barely higher than placebo. But that doesn't mean there are no risks. Understanding what to expect, what to watch for, and when to call your doctor helps you use Nurtec safely and confidently.

Common Side Effects of Nurtec ODT

In clinical trials, the most commonly reported side effects of Nurtec ODT were:

Nausea (2.7%) — the most common side effect for patients using Nurtec for migraine prevention (every other day dosing). For acute use, nausea was reported in approximately 2% of patients — similar to placebo.

Stomach pain / indigestion / abdominal pain (2.4%) — reported during the preventive treatment trial.

These rates are very low compared to older migraine treatments. For context, triptans like sumatriptan frequently cause chest tightness, dizziness, and flushing. Nurtec's tolerability is one of its key clinical advantages.

Serious Side Effects — What to Watch For

While serious side effects are rare, they require immediate attention if they occur:

Hypersensitivity Reactions (Allergic Reactions)

Serious hypersensitivity reactions — including anaphylaxis — have been reported with Nurtec ODT. These occurred in less than 1% of patients in clinical trials. Critically, these reactions can occur

days after taking the medication — not just immediately. Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately if you experience:

Swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

Rash or widespread hives

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure can worsen or newly develop after taking Nurtec ODT. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice increased blood pressure readings, headache unrelated to your migraine, or chest discomfort after taking Nurtec.

Raynaud's Phenomenon

Raynaud's phenomenon — a circulation problem causing the fingers or toes to turn numb, cool, or painful, or to change color (from pale, to blue, to red) — can worsen or occur for the first time after taking Nurtec ODT. If you notice unusual color changes or numbness in your fingers or toes, contact your doctor.

Does Nurtec ODT Have Any Boxed Warnings?

No. Nurtec ODT does not carry an FDA boxed warning (the most serious type of safety warning). This is another advantage over some other migraine medications. Nurtec is contraindicated only in patients with a known hypersensitivity to rimegepant or any inactive ingredients.

Side Effects Compared to Other Migraine Medications

Here's how Nurtec ODT's side effect profile compares to alternatives:

vs. Triptans (sumatriptan, rizatriptan): Nurtec has a significantly better tolerability profile. Triptans commonly cause chest tightness/pressure, dizziness, flushing, tingling, and somnolence. They also carry cardiovascular risks. Nurtec does not cause vasoconstriction.

vs. Ubrelvy (ubrogepant): Very similar profile. Both gepants are well-tolerated. Ubrelvy has nausea (~2%), somnolence (~2%), and dry mouth (rare).

vs. Topiramate (preventive): Nurtec is much better tolerated. Topiramate causes cognitive side effects ("brain fog"), weight loss, tingling, and has significant teratogenicity risks.

Special Populations: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Liver Disease

Pregnancy: It is not known if Nurtec ODT can harm an unborn baby. Avoid use during pregnancy unless the benefit clearly outweighs the risk.

Breastfeeding: Very small amounts of rimegepant pass into breast milk (<1%). Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Severe liver disease: Avoid Nurtec ODT in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Pediatric patients: Safety and effectiveness in patients under 18 have not been established.

Managing Common Side Effects

If nausea is bothering you after taking Nurtec:

Take it with a light snack (food doesn't significantly affect its absorption)

Stay well-hydrated

Talk to your doctor if nausea is persistent — an antiemetic may help or your dose timing may be adjustable

For a detailed look at medications that interact with Nurtec ODT, see our full guide on Nurtec ODT drug interactions.