1
|
Kramer J, Hayek S, Levy R. Neuromodulation treatments for migraine: a contemporary update. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2024; 37:597-603. [PMID: 39011719 DOI: 10.1097/aco.0000000000001414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Neuromodulation approaches have been a part of a revolution in migraine therapies with multiple devices approved or in development. These devices vary in the nerve(s) being targeted, implantable versus noninvasive form factors as well as their effectiveness for acute pain reduction or migraine prevention. This review will summarize these recent advancements and approaches that are being developed which build upon prior work and improved technology that may help enhance the effectiveness as well as the patient experience. RECENT FINDINGS Both noninvasive and implantable devices primarily targeting cranial nerves have shown the ability to help alleviate migraine symptoms. Multiple prospective and retrospective studies have demonstrated clinically meaningful reductions in headache intensity with noninvasive approaches, while prevention of migraine demonstrates more modest effects. Implantable neuromodulation technologies focusing on occipital and supraorbital stimulation have shown promise in migraine/headache prevention in chronic migraine patients, but there is a need for improvements in technology to address key needs for surgical approaches. SUMMARY Electrical neuromodulation approaches in the treatment of migraine is undergoing a transformation towards improved outcomes with better technologies that may suit various patient needs on a more individualized basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery Kramer
- Volta Research, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Salim Hayek
- Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Robert Levy
- Neurosurgery and Clinical Research, Anesthesia Pain Care Consultants, Inc, Tamarac, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Costa V, Gianlorenço AC, Andrade MF, Camargo L, Menacho M, Arias Avila M, Pacheco-Barrios K, Choi H, Song JJ, Fregni F. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation effects on chronic pain: systematic review and meta-analysis. Pain Rep 2024; 9:e1171. [PMID: 39131814 PMCID: PMC11309651 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is one of the major causes of disability with a tremendous impact on an individual's quality of life and on public health. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a safe therapeutic for this condition. We aimed to evaluate its effects in adults with chronic pain. A comprehensive search was performed, including randomized controlled trials published until October 2023, which assessed the effects of noninvasive tVNS. Cohen's d effect size and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and random-effects meta-analyses were performed. Fifteen studies were included. The results revealed a mean effect size of 0.41 (95% CI 0.17-0.66) in favor of tVNS as compared with control, although a significant heterogeneity was observed (χ2 = 21.7, df = 10, P = 0.02, I 2 = 53.9%). However, when compared with nonactive controls, tVNS shows a larger effect size (0.79, 95% CI 0.25-1.33), although the number of studies was small (n = 3). When analyzed separately, auricular tVNS and cervical tVNS against control, it shows a significant small to moderate effect size, similar to that of the main analysis, respectively, 0.42 (95% CI 0.08-0.76, 8 studies) and 0.36 (95% CI 0.01-0.70, 3 studies). No differences were observed in the number of migraine days for the trials on migraine. This meta-analysis indicates that tVNS shows promise as an effective intervention for managing pain intensity in chronic pain conditions. We discuss the design of future trials to confirm these preliminary results, including sample size and parameters of stimulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valton Costa
- Neurosciences Laboratory, Physical Therapy Department, Federal University of Sao Carlos, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
- Spaulding Neuromodulation Center and Center for Clinical Research Learning, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anna Carolyna Gianlorenço
- Neurosciences Laboratory, Physical Therapy Department, Federal University of Sao Carlos, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
- Spaulding Neuromodulation Center and Center for Clinical Research Learning, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria Fernanda Andrade
- Spaulding Neuromodulation Center and Center for Clinical Research Learning, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lucas Camargo
- Spaulding Neuromodulation Center and Center for Clinical Research Learning, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maryela Menacho
- Neurosciences Laboratory, Physical Therapy Department, Federal University of Sao Carlos, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
- Spaulding Neuromodulation Center and Center for Clinical Research Learning, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mariana Arias Avila
- Study Group on Chronic Pain (NEDoC), Laboratory of Research on Electrophysical Agents (LAREF), Physical Therapy Department, Federal University of Sao Carlos, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Kevin Pacheco-Barrios
- Spaulding Neuromodulation Center and Center for Clinical Research Learning, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Unidad de Investigación para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Lima, Peru
| | - Hyuk Choi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
- Neurive Co, Ltd, Gimhae, South Korea
| | - Jae-Jun Song
- Neurive Co, Ltd, Gimhae, South Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Korea University Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Felipe Fregni
- Spaulding Neuromodulation Center and Center for Clinical Research Learning, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Huang YB, Yuan L, Xiao XY, Wang XY, Feng SJ, Zheng H. Effect of different non-pharmacologic placebo treatments on migraine prevention: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Acta Neurol Belg 2024; 124:1125-1139. [PMID: 38245660 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-023-02460-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Placebo control plays an important role in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. Specifying differential effects of various placebo controls on migraine prevention would be essential in the explanation of preventive treatment for migraine and the indirect comparison between different prophylactic therapeutics. OBJECTIVES To access the impact of different non-pharmacologic placebo types on different outcomes in migraine patients. METHODS We searched PubMed, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, Embase, and Web of Science databases from the date of creation to June 19, 2023. Randomized controlled trials of migraine that included sham intervention of acupuncture or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation (nVNS) or repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) or transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) were conducted. The primary outcome was the migraine days, and the secondary outcomes were the number of migraine attacks, headache days, headache frequency, and responder's rate. Placebo effects were assessed using five individual placebos for network meta-analysis, using mean differences to measure the relative effect of pair-wise comparisons between interventions. RESULT A total of 50 trials with 4880 subjects were included. Twenty-seven trials were evaluated for low risk of bias. The results of indirect comparisons show that sham rTMS and sham tDCS had optimal and similar effects in reducing migraine days; sham acupuncture has the greatest effect on reducing the number of migraine attacks and relieving headache frequency; sham rTMS had a highly significant advantage in reducing headache days compared with the other placebo controls. CONCLUSION Based on the network meta-analysis results, we found that sham acupuncture had the greatest effect on migraine prophylaxis. The strong placebo effect of sham acupuncture should be considered when assessing the therapeutic effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Bing Huang
- The Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611100, China
| | - Lu Yuan
- The Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611100, China
| | - Xin-Yu Xiao
- The Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611100, China
| | - Xiao-Ying Wang
- The Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611100, China
| | - Si-Jia Feng
- The Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611100, China
| | - Hui Zheng
- The Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1166 Liutai Avenue, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Guzzi G, Della Torre A, Bruni A, Lavano A, Bosco V, Garofalo E, La Torre D, Longhini F. Anatomo-physiological basis and applied techniques of electrical neuromodulation in chronic pain. JOURNAL OF ANESTHESIA, ANALGESIA AND CRITICAL CARE 2024; 4:29. [PMID: 38698460 PMCID: PMC11064427 DOI: 10.1186/s44158-024-00167-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Chronic pain, a complex and debilitating condition, poses a significant challenge to both patients and healthcare providers worldwide. Conventional pharmacological interventions often prove inadequate in delivering satisfactory relief while carrying the risks of addiction and adverse reactions. In recent years, electric neuromodulation emerged as a promising alternative in chronic pain management. This method entails the precise administration of electrical stimulation to specific nerves or regions within the central nervous system to regulate pain signals. Through mechanisms that include the alteration of neural activity and the release of endogenous pain-relieving substances, electric neuromodulation can effectively alleviate pain and improve patients' quality of life. Several modalities of electric neuromodulation, with a different grade of invasiveness, provide tailored strategies to tackle various forms and origins of chronic pain. Through an exploration of the anatomical and physiological pathways of chronic pain, encompassing neurotransmitter involvement, this narrative review offers insights into electrical therapies' mechanisms of action, clinical utility, and future perspectives in chronic pain management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giusy Guzzi
- Neurosurgery Department, "R. Dulbecco" Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Attilio Della Torre
- Neurosurgery Department, "R. Dulbecco" Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Andrea Bruni
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, "R. Dulbecco" Univesity Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Viale Europa, Catanzaro, 88100, Italy
| | - Angelo Lavano
- Neurosurgery Department, "R. Dulbecco" Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Bosco
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, "R. Dulbecco" Univesity Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Viale Europa, Catanzaro, 88100, Italy
| | - Eugenio Garofalo
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, "R. Dulbecco" Univesity Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Viale Europa, Catanzaro, 88100, Italy
| | - Domenico La Torre
- Neurosurgery Department, "R. Dulbecco" Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Federico Longhini
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, "R. Dulbecco" Univesity Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Viale Europa, Catanzaro, 88100, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pak RJ, Ku JB, Abd-Elsayed A. Neuromodulation for Craniofacial Pain and Headaches. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3328. [PMID: 38137549 PMCID: PMC10741888 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Headaches and facial pain are highly prevalent diseases but are often difficult to treat. Though there have been significant advances in medical management, many continue to suffer from refractory pain. Neuromodulation has been gaining interest for its therapeutic purposes in many chronic pain conditions, including headaches and facial pain. There are many potential targets of neuromodulation for headache and facial pain, and some have more robust evidence in favor of their use than others. Despite the need for more high-quality research, the available evidence for the use of neuromodulation in treating headaches and facial pain is promising. Considering the suffering that afflicts patients with intractable headache, neuromodulation may be an appropriate tool to improve not only pain but also disability and quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ray J. Pak
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New York Medical College, Metropolitan Hospital, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Jun B. Ku
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New York Medical College, Metropolitan Hospital, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Alaa Abd-Elsayed
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53792, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Basedau H, Ornello R, Matteis ED, Davaasuren B, Kadyrova B, Vuralli D, Bozhenko M, Azizova I, Bitsadze N, Eralieva E, Ashina M, Mitsikostas D, Puledda F. Placebo and nocebo in the treatment of migraine: How much does real world effectiveness depend on contextual effects? Cephalalgia 2023; 43:3331024231218392. [PMID: 38041833 DOI: 10.1177/03331024231218392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Treatments in medicine impact individuals beyond their intended effects, due to phenomena such as the placebo and nocebo effects. The placebo effect arises from the positive expectation of a treatment being beneficial, while the nocebo effect stems from the negative expectation of a treatment causing harm. Both in real-world practice and clinical trials, treatments can lead to outcomes unrelated to their intended mechanism of action, which we categorize as placebo and nocebo responses. These responses, combined with the inherent fluctuation in a condition's natural progression, regression to the mean, and random comorbidities, make up a significant part of the therapeutic experience. Particularly in pain management, placebo and nocebo effects play a substantial role. By addressing modifiable contextual factors such as patient expectations, lifestyle choices, and the therapeutic relationship, healthcare providers can enhance the effectiveness of migraine treatments, paving the way for a more comprehensive, individualized approach to patient care. We must also consider non-modifiable factors like personal experiences, beliefs, and information from social media and the internet. CONCLUSION This review offers a summary of our current understanding of the placebo and nocebo effects in migraine management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hauke Basedau
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg- Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Raffaele Ornello
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Eleonora De Matteis
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Begimai Kadyrova
- Department of Special Clinical Disciplines, International School of Medicine of International University of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Doga Vuralli
- Department of Neurology and Algology, Neuropsychiatry Center, Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Center of Excellence (NÖROM), Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Myroslav Bozhenko
- Department of Neurology, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Ilaha Azizova
- Neurological Clinic "New Medical Technologies", Baku, Azerbaijan
| | | | | | - Messoud Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dimos Mitsikostas
- Department of Neurology Α, Aegintion Hospital, National and Kapidistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Francesca Puledda
- Headache Group, Wolfson SPaRC, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fang YT, Lin YT, Tseng WL, Tseng P, Hua GL, Chao YJ, Wu YJ. Neuroimmunomodulation of vagus nerve stimulation and the therapeutic implications. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1173987. [PMID: 37484689 PMCID: PMC10358778 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1173987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a technology that provides electrical stimulation to the cervical vagus nerve and can be applied in the treatment of a wide variety of neuropsychiatric and systemic diseases. VNS exerts its effect by stimulating vagal afferent and efferent fibers, which project upward to the brainstem nuclei and the relayed circuits and downward to the internal organs to influence the autonomic, neuroendocrine, and neuroimmunology systems. The neuroimmunomodulation effect of VNS is mediated through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that regulates immune cells and decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines. Traditional and non-invasive VNS have Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indications for patients with drug-refractory epilepsy, treatment-refractory major depressive disorders, and headaches. The number of clinical trials and translational studies that explore the therapeutic potentials and mechanisms of VNS is increasing. In this review, we first introduced the anatomical and physiological bases of the vagus nerve and the immunomodulating functions of VNS. We covered studies that investigated the mechanisms of VNS and its therapeutic implications for a spectrum of brain disorders and systemic diseases in the context of neuroimmunomodulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Fang
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ye-Ting Lin
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Lung Tseng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Philip Tseng
- Cross College Elite Program, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Research Center for Mind, Brain and Learning, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gia-Linh Hua
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Jui Chao
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Wu
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Shao P, Li H, Jiang J, Guan Y, Chen X, Wang Y. Role of Vagus Nerve Stimulation in the Treatment of Chronic Pain. Neuroimmunomodulation 2023; 30:167-183. [PMID: 37369181 PMCID: PMC10614462 DOI: 10.1159/000531626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) can modulate vagal activity and neuro-immune communication. Human and animal studies have provided growing evidence that VNS can produce analgesic effects in addition to alleviating refractory epilepsy and depression. The vagus nerve (VN) projects to many brain regions related to pain processing, which can be affected by VNS. In addition to neural regulation, the anti-inflammatory property of VNS may also contribute to its pain-inhibitory effects. To date, both invasive and noninvasive VNS devices have been developed, with noninvasive devices including transcutaneous stimulation of auricular VN or carotid VN that are undergoing many clinical trials for chronic pain treatment. This review aimed to provide an update on both preclinical and clinical studies of VNS in the management for chronic pain, including fibromyalgia, abdominal pain, and headaches. We further discuss potential underlying mechanisms for VNS to inhibit chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peiqi Shao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Huili Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xueming Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Song D, Li P, Wang Y, Cao J. Noninvasive vagus nerve stimulation for migraine: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1190062. [PMID: 37251233 PMCID: PMC10213755 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1190062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Medication is commonly used to treat migraine. However, patients may experience adverse events or fail to respond to medication. In recent years, neuromodulation techniques have emerged as potential non-pharmacological therapy for migraine. This article focuses on a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (n-VNS) for migraine to determine the efficacy, safety and tolerability of n-VNS. Methods We searched PUBMED, EMBASE, and Cochrane Center Register of Controlled Trials databases up to July 15, 2022. Primary outcomes were monthly reduced migraine/headache days, and pain-free rates within 2 h. Secondary outcomes were ≥ 50% responder rate, headache intensity, monthly acute medication reduction days, and adverse events. Results Meta-analysis shows that non-invasive cervical vagus nerve stimulation (n-cVNS) significantly impacted ≥50% responder rate (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.47; p = 0.02), but had no significant effect on reducing migraine days (MD, -0.46; 95% CI, -1.21 to 0.29; p = 0.23) and headache days (MD, -0.68; 95% CI, -1.52 to 0.16; p = 0.11). In contrast, low-frequency non-invasive auricular vagus nerve stimulation (n-aVNS) was found to significantly reduce the number of migraine days (MD, -1.8; 95% CI, -3.34 to -0.26; p = 0.02) and headache intensity (SMD, -0.7; 95% CI, -1.23 to -0.17; p = 0.009), but not the number of acute medication days per month (MD, -1.1; 95% CI, -3.84 to 1.64; p = 0.43). In addition, n-cVNS was found safe and well-tolerated in most patients. Conclusion These findings show that n-VNS is a promising method for migraine management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Song
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Piaoyi Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yonggang Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Cao
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Puledda F, Silva EM, Suwanlaong K, Goadsby PJ. Migraine: from pathophysiology to treatment. J Neurol 2023:10.1007/s00415-023-11706-1. [PMID: 37029836 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11706-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Migraine is an extremely disabling, common neurological disorder characterized by a complex neurobiology, involving a series of central and peripheral nervous system areas and networks. A growing increase in the understanding of migraine pathophysiology in recent years has facilitated translation of that knowledge into novel treatments, which are currently becoming available to patients in many parts of the world and are substantially changing the clinical approach to the disease. In the first part of this review, we will provide an up to date overview of migraine pathophysiology by analyzing the anatomy and function of the main regions involved in the disease, focusing on how these give rise to the plethora of symptoms characterizing the attacks and overall disease. The second part of the paper will discuss the novel therapeutic agents that have emerged for the treatment of migraine, including molecules targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide (gepants and monoclonal antibodies), serotonin 5-HT1F receptor agonists (ditans) and non-invasive neuromodulation, as well as providing a brief overview of new evidence for classic migraine treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Puledda
- Headache Group, Wolfson CARD, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) SLaM Clinical Research Facility at King's, Wellcome Foundation Building, King's College Hospital, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
| | | | - Kanokrat Suwanlaong
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Songkhla Medical Education Center, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Peter J Goadsby
- Headache Group, Wolfson CARD, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) SLaM Clinical Research Facility at King's, Wellcome Foundation Building, King's College Hospital, London, SE5 9PJ, UK.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Medication overuse headache (MOH) is a secondary headache disorder attributed to overuse of acute headache medications by a person with an underlying headache disorder, usually migraine or tension-type headache. MOH is common among individuals with 15 or more headache days per month. Although MOH is associated with substantial disability and reductions in quality of life, this condition is often under-recognized. As MOH is both preventable and treatable, it warrants greater attention and awareness. The diagnosis of MOH is based on the history and an unremarkable neurological examination, and is made according to the diagnostic criteria of the International Classification of Headache Disorders third edition (ICHD-3). Pathophysiological mechanisms of MOH include altered descending pain modulation, central sensitization and biobehavioural factors. Treatment of MOH includes the use of headache preventive therapies, but essential to success is eliminating the cause, by reducing the frequency of use of acute headache medication, and perhaps withdrawing the overused medication altogether. Appropriate treatment is usually highly effective, leading to reduced headache burden and acute medication consumption.
Collapse
|
12
|
Pi C, Liu Y, Li L, Tang W, Yan X, Yu S. Effects on neuromodulation, acupuncture, and aerobic exercises on migraine and tension-type headache outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30530. [PMID: 36397322 PMCID: PMC9666089 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Headache disorders are common diseases that cause a social burden. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of various non-pharmacological treatments to address or prevent acute headaches, including neuromodulation, acupuncture, and aerobic exercises in patients with episodic migraine and tension-type headache (TTH). METHODS We performed a systematic search of the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WANFANG MEDICINE ONLINE, and Chinese Medical Journal database using Stata/SE 14.0 to obtain weighted mean differences (WMDs). The outcomes included monthly headache days, headache intensity, headache duration, days per month of acute medication use, and the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey. RESULTS Of 872 identified articles, 27 were included in the meta-analysis. Neuromodulation was associated with reduced headache days (WMD: -1.274, 95% CI [-1.914, -0.634], P < .001), duration (WMD: -2.2, 95% CI [-3.32, -0.107], P < .001) and medication consumption (WMD: -1.808, 95% CI [-2.546, -1.071], P < .001) in cases of migraine. Acupuncture was associated with the alleviation of headache days (WMD: -0.677, 95% CI [-0.932, -0.422], P < .001) and intensity (WMD: -0.893, 95% CI [-1.573, -0.212], P = .01) in cases of migraine and acute medication use (WMD: -3.29, 95% CI [-4.86, -1.72], P < .001) in cases of TTH. Aerobic exercise was associated with reduced headache duration (WMD: -5.1, 95% CI [-8.97, -1.22], P = .01) in cases of TTH. The risk of bias for included articles was moderate. CONCLUSIONS There is low- and moderate-quality evidence that neuromodulation, acupuncture, and aerobic exercises are associated with attenuated headache symptoms in patients with episodic migraine or TTH. However, high-quality studies are needed to draw more detailed conclusions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenghui Pi
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yinglu Liu
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lingling Li
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenjing Tang
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Yan
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shengyuan Yu
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Neurology, the First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Outpatient Approach to Resistant and Refractory Migraine in Children and Adolescents: a Narrative Review. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2022; 22:611-624. [PMID: 36018499 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-022-01224-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Migraine is one of the top reasons for consulting a pediatric neurologist. Although the majority of children and adolescents who receive evidence-based first-line interventions for migraine will improve substantially, a subset of patients develop resistant or refractory migraine. RECENT FINDINGS In this review, we summarize the level of evidence for a variety of acute and preventive treatment options to consider in children and adolescents with resistant or refractory migraine. We describe the level of evidence for interventional procedures (onabotulinumtoxinA injections, greater occipital and other nerve blocks), neuromodulation (single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation, external trigeminal nerve stimulation, remote electrical neuromodulation, and non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway antagonists (anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies and gepants), psychological therapies, and manual therapies (acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, massage and physical therapy, and spinal manipulation).
Collapse
|