Researchers at the Headache Center of the University of Naples "Federico II"  have discovered an unexpected property in the antidiabetic drug liraglutide. Accordingly, it can considerably reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. The findings of the respective study were presented at the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) Congress 2025 in Finland.

A 12-week study of 26 patients with chronic migraine and obesity showed a significant reduction in the frequency of headaches. Volunteers reported an average reduction in the number of migraine days per month by 11 days, which halved the frequency of attacks. Also, patients noted an improvement in their quality of life, with a 35-point reduction in migraine-related incapacity for work.

Researchers have proven that the therapeutic effect is not achieved through weight loss, but due to the specific mechanism of action of this drug.

Liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has been shown to modulate intracranial pressure by reducing cerebrospinal fluid secretion and reducing compression of the cranial venous sinuses. This process leads to a decrease in the release of CGRP, the key peptide involved in the pathogenesis of migraine.

Clinical improvement in patients was observed already during the first two weeks of therapy and was maintained throughout the study. Also, side effects—mainly in the gastrointestinal tract—were recorded in only 38 percent of participants and did not require discontinuation of treatment.