Development of orodispersible films containing Naratriptan for the treatment of migraine

• Grant number: 24/15522-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Technology
• Principal Investigator: Priscila Gava Mazzola
• Grantee: Giovanna Chagas Lima
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Migraine is considered one of the most common forms of headache and affects around 15% of the world's population, being considered a disabling disease, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). There are several treatments for controlling migraine pain and symptoms, including triptans, a class of medications approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and considered first-line agents for the treatment of acute migraine episodes. The most common pharmaceutical form used is oral tablets, in addition, disintegrating tablets, nasal sprays and subcutaneous injections are available. Oral treatment during acute migraine attacks is not completely effective due to its associated symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, and oral administration of active ingredients also limits bioavailability. For these reasons, there is a need to explore alternative routes and different pharmaceutical forms for administering these drugs. Formulations for delivery through the oral mucosa are a promising system for administering these active ingredients, as they can considerably improve the bioavailability and effectiveness of the treatment, without the inconvenience of invasive treatments such as injectables. This study proposes to develop orodispersible film formulations containing Naratriptan, aiming to produce an alternative pharmaceutical form to the oral route, guaranteeing an efficient therapeutic effect for patients suffering from migraines. (AU)