Top 10 FDA-approved drugs prescribed by neurologists

The table above shows the top 10 most prescribed FDA-approved drugs by neurologists in 2024, providing a view of the medications currently driving treatment in neurology. Most of these drugs are generics, with levetiracetam, gabapentin, and topiramate emerging as the most prescribed. Notably, many of these medications are used to manage seizures. One brand-name medication—Nurtec ODT—is also included, reflecting its role intreating specific neurological conditions like migraines.

This data offers a snapshot of the prescribing habits in the field and highlights the ongoing reliance on generics, while also pointing to the presence of newer branded treatments in certain therapeutic areas.

Using prescribing data for strategic decision-making in neurology

Prescribing data offers critical insights that can inform strategic decision-making for life sciences companies. By pinpointing high-volume prescribers, companies can direct their efforts toward building relationships with neurologists who influence treatment decisions for a large patient base. This targeted focus allows for more impactful outreach.

Additionally, understanding which medications are most frequently prescribed allows companies to tailor their communication and educational resources to align with the therapeutic areas that neurologists are actively managing. This ensures that messaging is not only relevant but also resonant with current treatment practices.

Prescribing volumes also provide a competitive lens, helping companies assess their position in the market relative to competitors. If a competitor’s drug is gaining significant traction, it can reveal areas for product refinement or market expansion. Ultimately, prescribing data helps companies stay responsive to shifting market dynamics and be better positioned to meet the evolving needs of healthcare providers and patients alike.

What are neurological conditions?

Neurologic conditions encompass a wide range of disorders that impact the nervous system, which controls and coordinates essential bodily functions. The nervous system is divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Common neurological conditions include:

• Concussions
• Epilepsy
• Migraine and other headache disorders
• Multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases
• Neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Strokes

These conditions represent a diverse spectrum of pathologies, each with its own treatment challenges and therapeutic needs.

What drugs do neurologists prescribe?

The drugs prescribed by neurologists vary depending on the condition being treated. Anticonvulsants, or antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), are commonly used to manage seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. According to the CDC, about 3 million U.S. adults live with epilepsy.

For neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, neurologists often prescribe medications that address symptoms by modifying neurotransmitter activity in the brain. In Alzheimer's, these medications typically aim to enhance cognitive function, while in Parkinson’s, they help replenish dopamine levels to improve motor function and reduce symptoms like tremors and rigidity.

In addition to these, neurologists may prescribe medications for other neurological conditions, such as beta blockers for controlling migraines and tremors and blood thinners to reduce the risk of stroke. These treatments reflect the range of therapeutic approaches neurologists use to manage the diverse spectrum of neurological conditions.

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