GlaxoSmithKline reveals new study of migraine treatment

GlaxoSmithKline has revealed new data concerning a new migraine drug called to be marketed as Trexima, used to treat migraine and associated neck pain and sinus pain.

The drug, a single tablet therapy developed in conjunction with Pozen, demonstrated “effective” treatment during clinical trials. At the annual meeting of the American Headache Society, delegates were told of the drug’s rapid action and the ability to “significantly” decrease discomfort and sinus pain. In addition, the number of patients who were pain-free two hours after having ingested the treatment was over twice the number of those using the placebo.

In other studies, it was suggested that the drug’s method of action, which targets multiple mechanisms known to contribute to migraines, could provide a more effective treatment option.

Dr Stephen Silberstein, lead study investigator and director of the Jefferson Headache Centre, stated: “These data suggest that a single treatment designed to target multiple mechanisms of migraine may be an effective option for many patients.”

“In particular, we’re excited because these studies show promise at treating associated symptoms of migraine such as neck pain and discomfort and sinus pain and pressure, which can be difficult to alleviate,” he added.

According to the UK’s Migraine Action Association, migraine can affect people of all ages, although it is most prevalent in people aged 20 to 50 years and around two-thirds of sufferers are women. It affects up to 15 per cent of the population and attacks can last from four hours to 72 hours.

An average migraine sufferer could experience an average of 13 attacks each year, according to the charity.

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