Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists have an Additional Role for Headache Relief

Paddy Kalish OD Blog GLP-1 Receptor Agonists have an Additional Role for Headache Relief

Exenatide, a GLP-1 agonist sold under the brand names Byetta and Bydureon by AstraZeneca (LSE: AZN) as a type 2 diabetes drug, could be useful in another indication, a trial has found.

This study, published in the journal Brain, reports on a Phase II trial of the drug as a potential treatment for severe headaches known as idiopathic intercranial hypertension (IIH).

Central sensitization is considered a critical pathogenic mechanism of chronic migraine (CM). Activation of microglia in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) contributes to this progression. Microglial glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) activation can alleviate pain.  Microglial GLP-1R activation in the TNC may suppress the central sensitization of CM by regulating TNC microglial activation via the PI3K/Akt pathway.

What is idiopathic intracranial hypertension?

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disorder related to high pressure in the brain. It causes signs and symptoms of a brain tumor. It's also sometimes called pseudotumor cerebri or benign intracranial hypertension.

The fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain is called cerebrospinal fluid or CSF. If too much fluid is made or not enough is re-absorbed, the CSF can build up. This can cause symptoms like those of a brain tumor. 

What causes idiopathic intracranial hypertension?

Specialists do not know why IIH occurs. Obesity is a risk factor. Some medicines have been linked to a higher risk of it. These include common medicines like:

  • Birth control pills

  • Certain antibiotics

  • Chemotherapy medicines

  • Steroids

  • Some acne medicines

If you are suffering from IIH or suspect that you may have it, Please consult a Neurologist ASAP.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqtcmb_gs_I

Author
Paddy Kalish OD, JD and B.Arch

You Might Also Enjoy...

Glioblastoma(GBM)
Glioblastoma(GBM), is the most common and aggressive type of brain cancer, accounting for about 50% of all malignant brain tumors. GBM can occur at any age, but it is more prevalent in older adults and men, with a median age of diagnosis of 65 years.

Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetes is a known cause of Peripheral Neuropathy. The condition typically begins to affect distal peripheral nerves in a relatively symmetric pattern. Other common complications of Diabetes are Diabetic Retinopathy(DR) and Diabetic Kidney Disease(DKD)

Chloroquine Retinal Toxicity

Chloroquine(CQ) and Hydroxychloroquine(HCQ) are 4-aminoquinoline compounds that are commonly used in the prevention and treatment of Malaria. Hydroxychloroquine is also used in the treatment of rheumatologic diseases such as systemic lupus(SLE), etc.,

VITAMINS-Hype or Necessity
Vitamins are a cost effective way to insuring against hidden or subtle micro nutrient deficiencies that can sap immunity, health and vitality

SOLAR ECLIPSE
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, thereby obscuring the view of the Sun from a small part of the Earth, totally or partially. A total eclipse occurs only once every 18 months.

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES)

Most Commonly, PRES evolves over a matter of hours, with the most common presenting symptoms being seizures, disturbed vision, headache, and altered mental state. More than 75% of patients with PRES are severely hypertensive.