Devices for Episodic Migraine: Past, Present, and Future.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Medical Devices
• Pain Management

Background:

• Traditional migraine therapies include pharmacological treatments, which are not always effective or preferred by patients.
• A growing need exists for non-pharmacological treatment options for migraine management.
• Neuromodulatory devices have emerged as a significant advancement in migraine therapy over the past 15 years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on the use of neuromodulatory devices for migraine treatment.
• To highlight the growing role of non-invasive neuromodulation in managing migraine.

Main Methods:

• Review of preclinical studies and clinical trial data for authorized neuromodulatory devices.
• Focus on non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcutaneous supraorbital nerve stimulation, and remote electrical neuromodulation.

Main Results:

• Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation and spring-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation are cleared for migraine treatment, with validated efficacy and mechanisms.
• Other authorized devices include transcutaneous supraorbital nerve stimulation and remote electrical neuromodulation.
• Current data support the efficacy of these devices for episodic migraine.

Conclusions:

• Neuromodulatory devices provide effective, non-pharmacological treatment options for migraine.
• Further research is required to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action and enhance the rigor of clinical trial data for these devices.