GLP-1 Agonist Shows Promise in Reducing Migraine Frequency

A diabetes drug that lowers brain fluid pressure has slashed monthly migraine days by more than half, according to research presented at the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) Congress 2025. The study highlights a potential new avenue for migraine treatment using GLP-1 agonists.

Liraglutide Reduces Migraine Days

Researchers at the Headache Center of the University of Naples “Federico II” administered the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist liraglutide to 26 adults with obesity and chronic migraine (defined as ≥15 headache days per month). The results, presented at the EAN Congress 2025, showed a significant reduction in migraine frequency.

Patients reported an average of 11 fewer headache days per month, and their scores on the Migraine Disability Assessment Test (MIDAS) dropped by 35 points. This indicates a clinically meaningful advancement in their ability to function at work, in their studies, and in social settings.

Did You Know? The global prevalence of migraine is estimated to be around 14%, affecting approximately one in seven adults worldwide [[WHO Fact Sheet]].

The Role of Intracranial Pressure

The study suggests that the benefit of liraglutide in reducing migraine frequency is linked to its ability to modulate cerebrospinal fluid pressure. Participants were screened to exclude papilledema (optic disc swelling) and sixth nerve palsy, ruling out idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) as a primary factor.

Dr. simone Braca,the lead researcher,explained,”we think that,by modulating cerebrospinal fluid pressure and reducing intracranial venous sinuses compression,these drugs produce a decrease in the release of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP),a key migraine-promoting peptide. That would pose intracranial pressure control as a brand-new,pharmacologically targetable pathway.”

Study Findings

While participants experienced a slight decrease in body-mass index (BMI) from 34.01 to 33.65, this change was not statistically significant. An analysis confirmed that BMI reduction did not affect headache frequency, reinforcing the idea that pressure modulation, rather than weight loss, drives the benefit.

Pro Tip: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help manage migraine symptoms and reduce the frequency of attacks [[Mayo Clinic – Migraine Treatment]].

Side Effects and Future Research

Mild gastrointestinal side effects, mainly nausea and constipation, occurred in 38% of participants but did not lead to treatment discontinuation.The research team is now planning a randomized, double-blind trial with direct or indirect intracranial pressure measurement to further investigate these findings.

Professor Roberto De Simone, who leads the research team in Naples, stated, “We also want to determine whether other GLP-1 drugs can deliver the same relief, possibly with even fewer gastrointestinal side effects.”

Potential for Drug Repurposing

If confirmed, GLP-1-receptor agonists could offer a new treatment option for the estimated one in seven people worldwide who live with migraine, particularly those who do not respond to current preventives [[1]]. Given liraglutide’s established use in type 2 diabetes and obesity, it may represent a promising case of drug repurposing in neurology.

The following table summarizes the key findings of the study:

Implications for Migraine Treatment

The study suggests that GLP-1 agonists, typically used for diabetes and weight management, may offer a novel approach to migraine prevention by targeting intracranial pressure. This could be particularly beneficial for individuals who have not found relief with existing migraine treatments.

What are your thoughts on repurposing existing drugs for new treatments? How do you manage your migraine symptoms?