Migraine Minute News Update

Επεισόδια

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  Making OnabotulinumtoxinA Injections Less Painful 17.07.2026

  Ever wonder if there was a way to make OnabotulinumtoxinA injections less painful? New research suggests using this treatment before injections may help. Molly O'Brien explains in this Migraine Minute news update. Read the study: https://bit.ly/4wRHAFh   Script: For many people with chronic migraine, onabotulinumtoxinA, also known as Botox, is an effective treatment, but it can come with injection pain and post-treatment headache. New research shows there may be an option to help ease that pain. A study published in HEADACHE, found that adults who used a REN, or Remote Electrical Neuromodulation device, felt less pain during injections. The study also found that only 15 percent of those who used the REN device reported post-treatment headache, compared with 55 percent of those who used the fake device. The REN is sold under brand name Nerivio. It's a wearable, drug-free device that delivers electrical pulses to the arm, triggering the body's natural pain relief process. Researchers say these results show Remote Electrical Neuromodulation could be a safe and easy way to make injection treatment sessions more comfortable.
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  4th of July Migraine Triggers & Tips 03.07.2026 1λ

  Celebrating the Fourth of July with migraine is not easy. This festive holiday can be packed with sensory overload and migraine triggers. In this Migraine Minute, Molly O'Brien shares tips to help you enjoy the celebration while protecting your health.  Check out our triggers webpage: https://bit.ly/4kFOZRf   Script: While the Fourth of July can be a fun holiday to celebrate in the States, it can be tough for folks with migraine. Why? Well, there are so many factors that can be stacked against you. Think about it, heat, big crowds, staying up late, BBQ foods and drinks that might have triggering ingredients…Not to mention the bright flashes and loud bangs of fireworks. Research even shows exposure to sulfur dioxide, a common byproduct of fireworks, may trigger migraine attacks. If you have migraine and still want to enjoy the holiday, here are some tips from our migraine community: Stay hydrated, wear earplugs, watch fireworks from afar or skip altogether, bring migraine-safe food and drinks to your cookout, wear sunglasses or migraine glasses and keep a consistent routine. Don't forget to check out AMD's updated triggers page, where you can learn more about common migraine triggers and how to manage them.
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  Here's Why Fighting Migraine Stigma Matters 12.06.2026 1λ

  Why does fighting migraine stigma matter? That stigma we face may be more harmful than many people realize. Research shows increased stigma is linked with higher disease burden. Molly O'Brien breaks it all down in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read the study: https://bit.ly/4f8J6wv   Script: June is Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, and you're likely going to hear a lot about fighting migraine stigma. Let's take a look at why it really matters. Stigma is when someone is judged, dismissed, or treated unfairly because of a trait or condition. Through research, we're learning how harmful migraine stigma can be. According to the OVERCOME study, more than 30 percent of those living with migraine said they experience migraine stigma often or very often. The study found that increased migraine stigma was linked with higher disability, more burden between attacks, and lower quality of life, regardless of how many monthly headache days someone has. Researchers say the social context of migraine might actually have a bigger impact on quality of life than the number of headache days! With that, fighting stigma and spreading migraine awareness may help better the lives of all of us living with migraine.
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  Migraine & Tension Headache Linked With Body Pain 29.05.2026

  A new study shows body pain is more common and widespread in people with migraine or tension-type headache, and may be linked to a greater disease burden. Molly O'Brien breaks down the study in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read more: https://bit.ly/41BVe10   Script: According to a study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain, body pain is more prevalent and widespread in people with either migraine or tension-type headache. Researchers in South Korea wanted to better understand the relationship between headache and body pain. They reviewed data from 1,870 people, finding that those with migraine or tension-type headaches reported more body pain than those without. The location of pain differed between groups. Migraine was linked with neck pain, while tension-type headache showed a link to upper back pain. The study also found that the more widespread and intense the body pain, the greater the headache burden, including more frequent and severe monthly headache days, lower quality of life, along with more depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Researchers say the findings may point to central sensitization, where the brain and spinal cord become overly sensitive to pain signals.
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  Migraine Days Drop in Kids Treated With Fremanezumab 15.05.2026

  According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, fremanezumab led to a greater reduction in migraine days per month than placebo in children and adolescents with episodic migraine. Molly O'Brien breaks down the study in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read the study: https://bit.ly/4csROT5 Script: In August of 2025, the FDA approved fremanezumab, sold under brand name Ajovy, for prevention of episodic migraine in kids aged 6 to 17 who meet weight requirements. Now we're getting a look at additional research that supports how effective the drug is. Over the course of three months, 123 young people received a once-per-month injection of fremanezumab, while the other 111 participants got the placebo. According to the study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, participants who received fremanezumab had fewer migraine days than those in the placebo group. They also had fewer moderate to severe headache days. Nearly half of the group taking the treatment saw at least a 50 percent drop in migraine days… The most common side effect was redness at the injection site. Study authors say a longer follow-up is needed to better understand safety and how well the drug works in kids and teens.
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  Migraine + Fatigue: What New Research Reveals 01.05.2026

  Feeling drained with migraine? New research shows that more than half of people with migraine report fatigue, and it's tied to more frequent attacks and greater disability. Molly O'Brien breaks down the details in this Migraine Minute news update. Read More: https://bit.ly/4uNcspD   Script: More than half of people living with migraine say they also struggle with fatigue. That's according to a new study published in BMC's Journal of Headache and Pain. The study included 2,403 migraine patients, 57 percent of whom reported fatigue. They also found that people with fatigue had higher migraine frequency, worse sleep more disability, more severe cognitive symptoms, and more symptoms of anxiety and depression,  compared to those who didn't.* Study authors say that because fatigue is so common and impactful in migraine, it needs more attention. They suggested screening should be part of evaluations. *Although the study did not specify the exact cognitive symptoms, common ones people often experience include brain fog, memory problems, or trouble focusing.
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  Insurance Restrictions on Migraine Drugs Drive Higher ER Use 17.04.2026 1λ

  Insurance hurdles like prior authorization and step therapy prevent migraine patients from finding relief, but could payer blocking strategies lead to more ER and hospital visits? Molly O'Brien breaks it down the latest in this Migraine Minute news update. Read the study: https://bit.ly/40OlvJ0 The Migraine Policy Forum: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-headache-migraine-policy-forum/    Script: A study published in Headache shows insurance restrictions that deny access to migraine treatments aren't just frustrating…. These so-called "payer blocking" strategies were linked to more ER visits and hospital stays. Researchers reviewed information from more than 370,000 people with migraine who were denied access to prescribed migraine drugs at least two times because of payer blocking insurance restrictions like step therapy or prior authorization. They found payer blocking affected about one in five patients and was more common among those with lower income or lower education levels. They also found people with a history of payer blocking were more likely to visit the ER or be hospitalized for migraine-related or other health issues. Lead author Dr. Dawn Buse said, "These insurance barriers don't just delay care, they undermine quality of life, especially for those with fewer resources. Reducing them is essential to improving migraine outcomes."
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  Study Shows Migraine More Common in People with Autism 03.04.2026

  As April is Autism Awareness Month, we're sharing new research on the relationship between migraine and autism. A study published in Headache shows people with autism are more likely to experience migraine or headache, and symptoms may be more severe. Molly O'Brien breaks it down in this Migraine Minute news update. Read the Study: https://bit.ly/3PyF3P3 Creative Commons: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ Script: A study published in Headache found that people with autism are more likely to also have headache or migraine than those without autism. Looking at two data sets, researchers found that headache and migraine severity were increased in people with autism compared to those without. Also of note, people with autism and migraine were more likely to have had negative experiences in childhood, such as bullying, being a victim of violence, poor health, anxiety, depression, and concussion. Researchers note that migraine may be underdiagnosed in those living with autism due to communication barriers and that migraine screening may help with earlier diagnosis and treatment in those with autism.
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  Sinus Infection or Migraine? New HEADS Registry Findings 20.03.2026 1λ

  Facial pain or pressure? It might not be a sinus infection. New findings from AMD's HEADS Registry suggest migraine may be behind these symptoms for some. Molly O'Brien breaks down the research in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read more: https://bit.ly/4aE9Dis Do you have sinus pain, dizziness, or ringing in the ears? The HEADS Registry is collecting patient experiences to improve care. Learn more: migrainedisorders.org/heads-registry Creative Commons: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  This Treatment Cuts Migraine Days in Diverse Populations 06.03.2026

  Analysis of the COMPEL study shows that onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) can help reduce migraine days, lower migraine-related disability, and improve quality of life in diverse populations of chronic migraine patients. Molly O'Brien breaks down the data in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read More: https://bit.ly/4trLxyK Researchers acknowledge that the term "race" doesn't accurately capture diverse cultural differences, noting that future research should distinguish between race and ethnicity. *This content is not sponsored and is intended for educational purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement by the Association of Migraine Disorders for BOTOX® products.
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  Migraine-Related Dizziness? Vestibular Rehab Shows Promise 20.02.2026

  Can vestibular rehab help vestibular migraine? A new review suggests that it may ease dizziness and improve daily functioning. Molly O'Brien breaks down the information in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read More: https://bit.ly/4aOHo18 Script: A new review published in Headache, The Journal of Head and Face Pain, looked at whether or not vestibular rehabilitation could be effective for vestibular migraine. Researchers looked at seven studies involving more than 400 people with VM. The studies focused on how dizziness affects daily life, using a standardized questionnaire called the Dizziness Handicap Inventory. Overall, people who did vestibular rehab saw improvements in dizziness and quality of life. Results differed from study to study, so additional research is needed to confirm the benefits and figure out which exercises are most helpful.
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  Migraine Drug May Help Anxiety, Depression, and Sleep 06.02.2026

  Migraine preventive treatment benefits may go beyond fewer headache days. A new study links erenumab to improved symptoms of anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality in some people with migraine. Molly O'Brien has the details in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read More: https://bit.ly/3LJl3r7 Script: A new study suggests that one migraine treatment may offer benefits beyond less headache days. Researchers found that the CGRP monoclonal antibody erenumab, sold under the brand name Aimovig, not only reduces migraine frequency… but may improve symptoms of anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality in some adults with migraine. Participants took 140MG of erenumab monthly. Over the course of the 24 weeks those who had at least a 50 percent drop in monthly migraine days ALSO saw improved anxiety, depression, and sleep quality.  The authors say improvements are likely driven by better migraine control rather than a direct effect of the medication. Researchers also say this study highlights how good migraine prevention may improve overall well-being and quality of life.
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  Study Reveals Common, Early Migraine Warning Signs 23.01.2026

  In a study published in Headache, researchers identified 36 symptoms that can appear hours before a migraine attack. In this MM news update, Molly O'Brien highlights the most common symptoms, when they occur, and how recognizing these early signs can help people better treat their migraine attacks. Read more: https://bit.ly/4ozrewr Transcript: A new study published in Headache is among the first to explore the migraine prodrome from the patient's perspective. Researchers held in-depth interviews with 20 people who have migraine, all to better understand what happens before the headache phase begins and how bothersome those symptoms are. The study identified 36 prodrome symptoms…. with nausea, fatigue, sensitivity to light and sound, neck pain/stiffness, irritability, dizziness or vertigo, sensitivity to temperature, brain fog, and trouble concentrating being the most commonly reported. On average, each participant experienced about 13 prodrome symptoms. And, 72% of prodrome symptoms occurred one to six hours before the onset of head pain. The study authors say understanding these early signs may help determine a treatment window…. And if patients can use treatment before severe pain begins, there is potential to reduce migraine burden. That's your MM news update. I'm Molly O'Brien.
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  What the Migraine Community Knows About Migraine Progression 09.01.2026

  Our recent survey shows some people aren't aware migraine can progress—and many fear their attacks can get worse. Molly O'Brien breaks down the survey results in this MM news update. Do you worry about pain and symptoms getting worse? Let us know in the comments. Learn more: https://www.migrainedisorders.org/migraine-disorders/migraine-treatments/ Transcript: Did you know that migraine can be a progressive disease? For some people, attacks can become more frequent, and symptoms or pain may worsen over time. People may even transition from episodic to chronic migraine. The Association of Migraine Disorders held a survey to see how much the migraine community knows about the potential for progression. Among 459 respondents, 18% did not know that migraine could worsen over time.  50% were aware but hadn't always realized it could progress or become more severe. 68% said they were moderately to extremely worried that their migraine frequency or severity might increase. While migraine doesn't get worse for everyone, proper treatment can help prevent progression.  If you're nervous about your attacks getting worse, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider and visit AMD's treatments page to learn more. That's your MM news update, I'm Molly O'Brien.
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  Update on Migraine Treatment During Pregnancy 05.12.2025

  Treating migraine in pregnancy can be challenging since many drugs carry risks. The good news is that the FDA updated precautions on a drug-free wearable device. Molly O'Brien has the story in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read More: http://bit.ly/4mMtfo1  Script: The FDA recently updated its precautionary language on the Nerivio neuromodulation device… removing the note that it has not been studied for use during pregnancy. Based on a 2023 study published in Headache, the FDA changed the precaution to: "Users should consult their healthcare provider if they are pregnant or intend to get pregnant prior to using the device."  As we previously reported in an August 2023 Migraine Minute News update, the study's results suggest that the Nerivio device is a safe treatment for migraine during pregnancy, does not increase the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes, and may offer a drug-free treatment option for migraine during pregnancy.
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  Study Says Cannabis Shows Promise for Migraine Relief 14.11.2025

  First-of-its-kind study: A new study suggests that a combination of THC + CBD works better than placebo, THC alone, or CBD alone for reducing migraine pain and symptoms. Molly O'Brien breaks it down in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read More: https://bit.ly/4qvpuWo Script: For the first time, researchers tested cannabis in a placebo-controlled trial for migraine… and results suggest it could be effective. A recent study found that when treating migraine attacks, a vaporized combination of THC and CBD worked better than THC alone, CBD alone, or a placebo. THC alone helped with pain, but not other symptoms, while CBD alone did not show any benefit. Study participants who used the THC/CBD combination also saw improvements in light and sound sensitivity, but not nausea or vomiting. No serious adverse events were reported. In an interview with MedScape, one researcher noted that people experienced benefits without using higher, recreational doses of cannabis.       
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  Tried Multiple Migraine Treatments Without Relief? Atogepant May Help 31.10.2025

  A new real-world study shows atogepant (sold under brand name Qulipta) may quickly reduce migraine days—even for those who haven't responded to other treatments. Molly O'Brien has more in this Migraine Minute News Update! Read more: http://bit.ly/3UcEuJN CC License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Script: The GIANT study, published inThe Journal of Headache and Pain, offers real-world evidence that atogepant is a safe, well-tolerated, and effective for migraine prevention—among those whose prior treatments didn't work. Researchers looked at the impact of 60 mg of atogepant, taken once daily in people with either high-frequency episodic or chronic migraine. Many of the participants had already tried at least three other preventive treatments… including CGRP monoclonal antibodies. Results? At 12 weeks, on average, participants saw a decrease of 6 migraine days and 11 headache days per month. In fact, nearly 60% of experienced at least a 50 percent drop in migraine days. Pain intensity, disability, and use of acute drugs also dropped. Some saw improvement in migraine frequency within the first week.
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  Diabetes Drug May Cut Migraine Days in Half 19.09.2025

  Can diabetes and weight loss drugs help with migraine relief? A new study suggests GLP-1 medications may significantly reduce migraine days. @ Molly O'Brien has more in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read More: http://bit.ly/4kGN4eO Image and license to use: Headache. 2025; 00: 1-8. http://bit.ly/47imNQO Script: GLP-1s….a drug class widely used for diabetes and weight loss treatment, may also help migraine. A small study published in Headache looked at liraglutide as an add-on treatment for unresponsive migraine in people with obesity who have tried at least two preventive migraine treatments. The study tracked 31 adults with high-frequency episodic or chronic migraine. After taking a daily dose of the drug for three months, on average, they saw monthly headache days drop from about 20 to just under 11—a significant improvement. What may be surprising… is that the benefit came with insignificant weight loss. 
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  Major Study Shows Triptans Top Other Oral Acute Meds 05.09.2025

  A major study found that oral triptans work better for the acute treatment of migraine, than newer drugs. Molly O'Brien breaks it all down in this Migraine Minute News Update. Read more: https://bit.ly/3Wu6ZnP Images and License to use: BMJ 2024;386:e080107http://bit.ly/4ljgU9x Script: A major international study published in the British Medical Journal found triptans to be the most effective acute treatment for migraine. Researchers analyzed 137 clinical trials involving nearly 90,000 adults… comparing 17 oral treatments. They looked at how many people were pain-free two hours post-dose and how many were still pain-free at 24 hours, as well as the safety and tolerability of the treatments. They looked at how many people were pain-free at 2 hours and 24 hours, as well as the safety and tolerability of the treatments. The top performer? Eletriptan — it was shown to be the most effective for both rapid and sustained pain relief. Other high performers included rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and zolmitriptan. Those four triptans consistently outperformed newer acute treatment options like lasmiditan, ubrogepant, and rimegepant. These newer acute treatments worked about as well as acetaminophen and most non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Also, results showed that not all NSAIDs work the same for migraine.  
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  Psychedelic Use Linked to Fewer Frequent Headaches 15.08.2025

  A study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found a surprising connection between psychedelic use and frequent bad headaches. Could psilocybin play a role in headache treatment? Molly O'Brien explains in this Migraine Minute News Update.  Read more: http://bit.ly/40k21Mu Script: A new study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology shows that people who've used psychedelics like LSD or psilocybin may be less likely to experience frequent bad headaches. Researchers analyzed data from a large group of people in the UK and found that those who reported a lifetime use of classic psychedelics were 25% less likely to report frequent bad headaches compared to those who had never used them. So why might that be? One thought is that both psychedelics and conventional migraine drugs (like triptans) work on serotonin receptors in the brain. While the study doesn't prove that psychedelics directly prevent headaches, It DOES add to growing evidence that psychedelics may be a helpful tool to treat headache disorders. And a quick note, psychedelics are illegal on a federal level in the US. That's your migraine minute news update, I'm Molly O'Brien. Images: Sage Journals. The Journal of Psychopharmacology. doi: 10.1177/02698811251324 License to use: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/