A Diabetes Drug Just Cut Migraines in Half—Here’s How.

A 2025 pilot study from the University of Naples “Federico II” found that the diabetes drug liraglutide (a GLP-1 receptor agonist) reduced monthly migraine days by over 50% in patients with chronic migraine. Unlike past migraine drugs, this one works by lowering brain pressure, not body weight—unlocking a new pathway for treatment.

In just 12 weeks, participants experienced an average of 11 fewer headache days per month and significant improvement in daily function. Surprisingly, these results occurred without meaningful weight loss, suggesting liraglutide’s ability to lower intracranial pressure—and reduce migraine-driving neuropeptides like CGRP—was the key. Mild side effects (nausea, constipation) were noted in 38% of users.

If you suffer from chronic migraines, this may be a promising new medication to look forward to.