A small study presented at the European Academy of Neurology Congress found that a GLP-1 drug, liraglutide, reduced the number of days spent with migraines by almost half in a given month. The results suggest a promising new use for popular obesity and diabetes medications.
According to the World Health Organization, nearly 40 million Americans suffer from migraines, which are the second-leading cause of disability worldwide. Previous studies have shown that GLP-1s can reduce pressure inside the skull, a possible cause of migraines.
In the study, 31 adults, most of whom were women, received daily injections of liraglutide for 12 weeks. Before and after treatment, they reported headaches on average 20 days out of a month, dropping to about 11 days during the trial period. The relief from migraines lasted throughout the three-month observation period.
The study’s lead researcher, Simone Braca, noted that most patients felt better within two weeks and experienced improved quality of life. However, weight loss was not significant. Further research is planned, including a randomized, double-blind trial to test other GLP-1 drugs and compare their effects on migraines.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/popular-weight-loss-drugs-show-promising-new-power-against-debilitating-migraines