Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

‘Gwada Negative’: The New Blood Type Discovered In A Woman From Guadeloupe

In a breakthrough that could transform how we understand blood compatibility and genetic mutations, French scientists have identified a new and ultra-rare human blood group, officially recognized as the <span>48th blood group</span> system in the world. Dubbed "<span>Gwada Negative</span>", the blood type was discovered in a woman from the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, and to date, she remains the only known person on Earth with this unique genetic profile.

The discovery not only expands the landscape of hematology but also highlights the critical importance of diversity in medical research, rare blood registries, and personalized healthcare.

The journey began quietly in 2011, when a 54-year-old woman undergoing routine pre-surgical testing in Paris presented with an unusual antibody in her blood. Despite efforts, researchers at the French Blood Establishment (EFS) couldn’t find a compatible donor, nor could they classify her blood within existing systems.

At the time, the tools to decode her rare profile weren’t advanced enough. But the case wasn’t forgotten.

By 2019, thanks to breakthroughs in high-throughput DNA sequencing, researchers re-analyzed her sample and discovered a genetic mutation in the PIGZ gene, which plays a role in anchoring proteins to the surface of blood cells. This mutation, inherited from both of her parents, created a completely novel blood group system.

In June 2024, the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) officially recognized "Gwada Negative" as the world’s 48th blood group system—a milestone that may impact everything from transfusion medicine to maternal-fetal care.

<h2>Why This Discovery is Revolutionary?</h2>

The implications of discovering a new blood group extend far beyond academic curiosity. Blood group compatibility is a life-or-death issue, especially during transfusions, organ transplants, or pregnancy. Incompatibility can lead to immune reactions, severe complications, or even death.

According to the CDC, approximately 14 million blood transfusions are performed annually in the U.S. alone. While most rely on common blood groups like A+, O−, or AB+, there exists an entire spectrum of rare and ultra-rare blood types that standard testing often misses.

The “Gwada Negative” case emphasizes the need to refine and expand global rare blood registries to include more ethnically diverse populations, especially from regions like the Caribbean, Africa, and South America where underrepresentation in biomedical research is prevalent.

<h2>What Makes 'Gwada Negative' Blood Type So Unique?</h2>

According to Dr. Thierry Peyrard, the medical biologist at EFS who led the discovery, the blood type was named “Gwada” as a nod to the patient’s Guadeloupean heritage and because the name “sounded good in all languages.”

But the science behind it is no less poetic. The <span>PIGZ gene mutation</span> responsible for this blood type affects how proteins bind to red blood cells—an anomaly not found in any other known human sample.

“She is the only person in the world who is compatible with herself,” Peyrard remarked, underlining the magnitude of the challenge: no blood donor, not even family members, matched her type. In medical terms, this makes her the most transfusion-challenged person alive.

<h2>Significance of ' Gwada Negative' for Global Health</h2>

As genetic sequencing becomes more accessible and advanced, the pace of discovering new blood groups is accelerating. The discovery of Gwada Negative joins a growing list of rare blood types, adding crucial data to our understanding of hematological diversity and helping us respond better in emergencies involving rare phenotypes.

According to EFS, it has been responsible for identifying 10 of the last 17 blood group systems over the past decade, showing how France has quietly become a global leader in blood science.

“Discovering new blood groups means offering patients with rare blood types a better level of care,” said the EFS in a statement. “It brings hope—especially when seconds count in emergency situations.”

While the discovery of Gwada Negative is historic, the next step is critical: finding others who share this blood group, particularly within populations that may carry similar ancestry or genetic mutations.

Peyrard and his team are working on launching targeted blood donor campaigns in Guadeloupe and among people of Caribbean descent. Their goal is to identify other carriers and potentially build an international rare blood donor registry that includes this newly classified group.

This is especially important for women of childbearing age. If a pregnant woman with a rare blood type produces antibodies against her fetus's blood cells, it can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn—a serious, and sometimes fatal, complication.

<h2>How The <span rel="noindex">New Blood Type</span> Will Impact Rare Diseases and Genetic Research?</h2>

The implications of discovering new blood types go beyond transfusions. Mutations like those found in the PIGZ gene may also shed light on other genetic disorders, including those affecting the immune system, neurological conditions, and inflammatory diseases.

“This discovery has not only functional results,” Peyrard noted. “It allows for a better understanding of pathologies.”

In the future, understanding blood types at a molecular level could even lead to personalized cancer therapies or targeted drug development for rare conditions.

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In a breakthrough that could transform how we understand blood compatibility and genetic mutations, French scientists have identified a new and ultra-rare human blood group, officially recognized as the 48th blood group system in the world. Dubbed "Gwada Negative", the blood type was discovered in a woman from the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, and to date, she remains the only known person on Earth with this unique genetic profile.The discovery not only expands the landscape of hematology but also highlights the critical importance of diversity in medical research, rare blood registries, and personalized healthcare.The journey began quietly in 2011, when a 54-year-old woman undergoing routine pre-surgical testing in Paris presented with an unusual antibody in her blood. Despite efforts, researchers at the French Blood Establishment (EFS) couldn’t find a compatible donor, nor could they classify her blood within existing systems.At the time, the tools to decode her rare profile weren’t advanced enough. But the case wasn’t forgotten.By 2019, thanks to breakthroughs in high-throughput DNA sequencing, researchers re-analyzed her sample and discovered a genetic mutation in the PIGZ gene, which plays a role in anchoring proteins to the surface of blood cells. This mutation, inherited from both of her parents, created a completely novel blood group system.In June 2024, the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) officially recognized "Gwada Negative" as the world’s 48th blood group system—a milestone that may impact everything from transfusion medicine to maternal-fetal care.Why This Discovery is Revolutionary?The implications of discovering a new blood group extend far beyond academic curiosity. Blood group compatibility is a life-or-death issue, especially during transfusions, organ transplants, or pregnancy. Incompatibility can lead to immune reactions, severe complications, or even death.According to the CDC, approximately 14 million blood transfusions are performed annually in the U.S. alone. While most rely on common blood groups like A+, O−, or AB+, there exists an entire spectrum of rare and ultra-rare blood types that standard testing often misses.The “Gwada Negative” case emphasizes the need to refine and expand global rare blood registries to include more ethnically diverse populations, especially from regions like the Caribbean, Africa, and South America where underrepresentation in biomedical research is prevalent.What Makes 'Gwada Negative' Blood Type So Unique?According to Dr. Thierry Peyrard, the medical biologist at EFS who led the discovery, the blood type was named “Gwada” as a nod to the patient’s Guadeloupean heritage and because the name “sounded good in all languages.”But the science behind it is no less poetic. The PIGZ gene mutation responsible for this blood type affects how proteins bind to red blood cells—an anomaly not found in any other known human sample.“She is the only person in the world who is compatible with herself,” Peyrard remarked, underlining the magnitude of the challenge: no blood donor, not even family members, matched her type. In medical terms, this makes her the most transfusion-challenged person alive.Significance of ' Gwada Negative' for Global HealthAs genetic sequencing becomes more accessible and advanced, the pace of discovering new blood groups is accelerating. The discovery of Gwada Negative joins a growing list of rare blood types, adding crucial data to our understanding of hematological diversity and helping us respond better in emergencies involving rare phenotypes.According to EFS, it has been responsible for identifying 10 of the last 17 blood group systems over the past decade, showing how France has quietly become a global leader in blood science.“Discovering new blood groups means offering patients with rare blood types a better level of care,” said the EFS in a statement. “It brings hope—especially when seconds count in emergency situations.”While the discovery of Gwada Negative is historic, the next step is critical: finding others who share this blood group, particularly within populations that may carry similar ancestry or genetic mutations.Peyrard and his team are working on launching targeted blood donor campaigns in Guadeloupe and among people of Caribbean descent. Their goal is to identify other carriers and potentially build an international rare blood donor registry that includes this newly classified group.This is especially important for women of childbearing age. If a pregnant woman with a rare blood type produces antibodies against her fetus's blood cells, it can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn—a serious, and sometimes fatal, complication.How The New Blood Type Will Impact Rare Diseases and Genetic Research?The implications of discovering new blood types go beyond transfusions. Mutations like those found in the PIGZ gene may also shed light on other genetic disorders, including those affecting the immune system, neurological conditions, and inflammatory diseases.“This discovery has not only functional results,” Peyrard noted. “It allows for a better understanding of pathologies.”In the future, understanding blood types at a molecular level could even lead to personalized cancer therapies or targeted drug development for rare conditions.

‘gwada negative’: the new blood type discovered in a woman from guadeloupe

Ishita Roy

These Are The Unusual Symptoms Of The Newly Identified COVID-19 Variant NB.1.8.1

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'Nimbus' or the new COVID-19 variant, named NB.1.8.1 is making rounds around the world. While new variants have come up in the recent past, what makes Nimbus stand out more is its unusual symptoms. 

We all know from our past experiences or the cases we may have read of the sharp fever, fatigue, and loss of taste and smell as signs of COVID-19. However, this new variant have some unusual symptoms, which are too easy to ignore a first.

If you are a daily beverage consumer and like your drinks cold, you may have experienced this before. However, it could now be more than just a viral infection. Patients who have been infected with this variant complain of 'razor blades' like feeling in the throat, especially when they try to swallow anything including their own saliva. 

Global health reports have also confirmed such cases of sharp throat pin that feels like there's razor blade in your throat. 

The scientists have confirmed that the new variant is a subvariant of Omicron. However, the scientists have also confirmed that the disease impact is not as severe. 

This may not be the first time you heard this symptom for COVID-19. When you lose your taste and smell senses, it becomes difficult to stay hungry or crave for food.

Scientists say that however, with the new variant, this could be due to inflammatory markers which affect the hypothalamus or the appetite control center in the brain. 

Doctors suggest to keep an eye on your changing eating habits.

This is not just your regular muscle aches, but these are described as weird muscles. You may expedience a shooting pain in your body's off spots. These are the regions in your body you may not have imagined to experience pain from. They include your jaw, teeth, or even behind the ears.

It is also because early inflammatory reaction, caused by NB.1.8.1 triggers muscle groups with are not usually affected by respiratory illnesses. 

<h4>Nasal Congestion That Lasts Long</h4>

If you have a sore throat and a shooting fever, it is normal to experience nasal congestion. So what makes it different for people as the new variant has arrived?

Patients have described this as "never-ending congestion". This complaints have stood out this time as people have been visiting the doctor. 

While it is for sure different from the former COVID-19, the impact may not be as bad. However, experts do suggest to follow the basic COVID-19 rule of social distancing, using masks, hand sanitizer, following queue in crowded area. 

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'Nimbus' or the new COVID-19 variant, named NB.1.8.1 is making rounds around the world. While new variants have come up in the recent past, what makes Nimbus stand out more is its unusual symptoms. We all know from our past experiences or the cases we may have read of the sharp fever, fatigue, and loss of taste and smell as signs of COVID-19. However, this new variant have some unusual symptoms, which are too easy to ignore a first.Razor Blades In ThroatIf you are a daily beverage consumer and like your drinks cold, you may have experienced this before. However, it could now be more than just a viral infection. Patients who have been infected with this variant complain of 'razor blades' like feeling in the throat, especially when they try to swallow anything including their own saliva. Global health reports have also confirmed such cases of sharp throat pin that feels like there's razor blade in your throat. The scientists have confirmed that the new variant is a subvariant of Omicron. However, the scientists have also confirmed that the disease impact is not as severe. Sudden Loss Of AppetiteThis may not be the first time you heard this symptom for COVID-19. When you lose your taste and smell senses, it becomes difficult to stay hungry or crave for food.Scientists say that however, with the new variant, this could be due to inflammatory markers which affect the hypothalamus or the appetite control center in the brain. Doctors suggest to keep an eye on your changing eating habits.Muscle AchesThis is not just your regular muscle aches, but these are described as weird muscles. You may expedience a shooting pain in your body's off spots. These are the regions in your body you may not have imagined to experience pain from. They include your jaw, teeth, or even behind the ears.It is also because early inflammatory reaction, caused by NB.1.8.1 triggers muscle groups with are not usually affected by respiratory illnesses. Nasal Congestion That Lasts LongIf you have a sore throat and a shooting fever, it is normal to experience nasal congestion. So what makes it different for people as the new variant has arrived?Patients have described this as "never-ending congestion". This complaints have stood out this time as people have been visiting the doctor. Is It Cold Or Any DifferentWhile it is for sure different from the former COVID-19, the impact may not be as bad. However, experts do suggest to follow the basic COVID-19 rule of social distancing, using masks, hand sanitizer, following queue in crowded area. 

these are the unusual symptoms of the newly identified covid-19 variant nb.1.8.1

FDA Approves Once-Monthly Injection For Hereditary Angioedema; What It Means For Long-Term Treatment?

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As a significant breakthrough in rare disease therapy, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has just approved Andembry (garadacimab‑gxii), the first-ever prophylactic treatment that aims for factor XIIa to prevent attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE). This once-monthly injectable has provided patients 12 years and older with a new, convenient way to manage symptoms effectively—but its significance extends far beyond convenience, as it is a sea change in the way we treat this incapacitating illness.

Hereditary angioedema is an inherited, rare illness that results in sudden, aching swelling of the body's different regions, such as the face, limbs, or inner tissues like the airway or intestines. Blockages caused by it can result in life-threatening respiratory problems or severe abdominal pain. These occur because leakage from small blood vessels lets fluid seep into nearby tissues. HAE typically presents in childhood or adolescence, worsens after puberty, and strikes almost everyone diagnosed through age 20.

While the swelling may be painful and disfiguring, the most significant danger is airway involvement, which can be fatal. Conventional treatments are primarily concerned with treating these sudden attacks or maintaining regular infusions to prevent them. But until now, real long-term prevention was out of reach.

Andembry is a monoclonal antibody that directly blocks factor XIIa, a central protein in the cascade of processes that leads to HAE attacks. By blocking factor XIIa's action, Andembry stops the process before swelling occurs—making the first line of defense against unpredictable flare-ups.

Administered through a straightforward autoinjector that delivers the dose in 15 seconds or less, Andembry is designed to become an integral part of patients' lives. Users simply have to self-administer the injection on a monthly basis, making it a convenient option for teenagers as well as adults who are treating this condition.

The FDA's approval is based on powerful Phase III clinical trial data. During six months, 62% of Andembry patients were wholly attack-free—a remarkable benchmark for a disease characterized by constant flare-ups.

<h2>Are There Any Possible Side Effects?</h2>

Like any drug, Andembry has potential side effects, although most were mild. The most frequent problems encountered involved nasal and upper throat inflammation and abdominal pain, each of which were observed in approximately 7% of patients. Most importantly, no severe adverse events or drop-outs from treatment were seen—testifying to the drug's overall safety and tolerability.

Such a positive profile represents an important victory for a long-term treatment—particularly one that will be repeatedly self-administered by families and patients.

Dr. Bill Mezzanotte, R&amp;D Head at CSL (who created Andembry), refers to the drug as a "game-changer". He mentions it's the first monoclonal antibody to be created wholly by CSL and the only injectable treatment for factor XIIa. The fact that it's designed to give treatment in seconds speaks to a patient-centric focus—particularly necessary for a disease that is notoriously unpredictable and can hit at any time.

<h2>What This Means for HAE Treatment and Care</h2>

Apart from clinical efficacy, Andembry vows to greatly improve the daily lives of HAE patients. The benefits in everyday life are:

<ul><li>Relief from emotional distress of never knowing when the swelling will occur</li><li>Fewer visits to emergency rooms and reliance on on-demand drugs</li><li>More independence to travel, socialize, and enjoy activities</li><li>Better school or work productivity because of more consistent health</li></ul>

Preventing attacks before they occur can cut down school or workplace absences, decrease hospital visits, and reduce emergency care expenses—all substantial quality-of-life differences.

Andembry's approval represents a tipping point in the direction of personalized, preventive treatment for HAE. It changes the emphasis from responding to swelling attacks to actively preventing them, a shift with broad implications for patients and the health care system as a whole.

Providers now have a powerful, easy-to-use option to present to patients and families. Investigators are looking at whether Andembry can supplant or minimize the use of current prophylactics, like C1 inhibitor treatments or bradykinin receptor antagonists.

Economically, although monoclonal antibody therapies are generally very expensive, Andembry's ability to decrease emergency room visits and hospital stays could potentially yield dramatic cost savings for both patients and payers over time.

With Andembry's approval, individuals with hereditary angioedema can now receive a once-per-month injection that provides near-total attack prevention, outstanding safety, and improved quality of life. For the increasingly large population of diagnosed and undiagnosed patients, Andembry provides a new level of confidence and control in managing a condition long known to be capricious and highly restrictive.

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As a significant breakthrough in rare disease therapy, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has just approved Andembry (garadacimab‑gxii), the first-ever prophylactic treatment that aims for factor XIIa to prevent attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE). This once-monthly injectable has provided patients 12 years and older with a new, convenient way to manage symptoms effectively—but its significance extends far beyond convenience, as it is a sea change in the way we treat this incapacitating illness.Hereditary angioedema is an inherited, rare illness that results in sudden, aching swelling of the body's different regions, such as the face, limbs, or inner tissues like the airway or intestines. Blockages caused by it can result in life-threatening respiratory problems or severe abdominal pain. These occur because leakage from small blood vessels lets fluid seep into nearby tissues. HAE typically presents in childhood or adolescence, worsens after puberty, and strikes almost everyone diagnosed through age 20.While the swelling may be painful and disfiguring, the most significant danger is airway involvement, which can be fatal. Conventional treatments are primarily concerned with treating these sudden attacks or maintaining regular infusions to prevent them. But until now, real long-term prevention was out of reach.How Andembry Works?Andembry is a monoclonal antibody that directly blocks factor XIIa, a central protein in the cascade of processes that leads to HAE attacks. By blocking factor XIIa's action, Andembry stops the process before swelling occurs—making the first line of defense against unpredictable flare-ups.Administered through a straightforward autoinjector that delivers the dose in 15 seconds or less, Andembry is designed to become an integral part of patients' lives. Users simply have to self-administer the injection on a monthly basis, making it a convenient option for teenagers as well as adults who are treating this condition.The FDA's approval is based on powerful Phase III clinical trial data. During six months, 62% of Andembry patients were wholly attack-free—a remarkable benchmark for a disease characterized by constant flare-ups.Are There Any Possible Side Effects?Like any drug, Andembry has potential side effects, although most were mild. The most frequent problems encountered involved nasal and upper throat inflammation and abdominal pain, each of which were observed in approximately 7% of patients. Most importantly, no severe adverse events or drop-outs from treatment were seen—testifying to the drug's overall safety and tolerability.Such a positive profile represents an important victory for a long-term treatment—particularly one that will be repeatedly self-administered by families and patients.Dr. Bill Mezzanotte, R&D Head at CSL (who created Andembry), refers to the drug as a "game-changer". He mentions it's the first monoclonal antibody to be created wholly by CSL and the only injectable treatment for factor XIIa. The fact that it's designed to give treatment in seconds speaks to a patient-centric focus—particularly necessary for a disease that is notoriously unpredictable and can hit at any time.What This Means for HAE Treatment and CareApart from clinical efficacy, Andembry vows to greatly improve the daily lives of HAE patients. The benefits in everyday life are:Relief from emotional distress of never knowing when the swelling will occurFewer visits to emergency rooms and reliance on on-demand drugsMore independence to travel, socialize, and enjoy activitiesBetter school or work productivity because of more consistent healthPreventing attacks before they occur can cut down school or workplace absences, decrease hospital visits, and reduce emergency care expenses—all substantial quality-of-life differences.Andembry's approval represents a tipping point in the direction of personalized, preventive treatment for HAE. It changes the emphasis from responding to swelling attacks to actively preventing them, a shift with broad implications for patients and the health care system as a whole.Providers now have a powerful, easy-to-use option to present to patients and families. Investigators are looking at whether Andembry can supplant or minimize the use of current prophylactics, like C1 inhibitor treatments or bradykinin receptor antagonists.Economically, although monoclonal antibody therapies are generally very expensive, Andembry's ability to decrease emergency room visits and hospital stays could potentially yield dramatic cost savings for both patients and payers over time.With Andembry's approval, individuals with hereditary angioedema can now receive a once-per-month injection that provides near-total attack prevention, outstanding safety, and improved quality of life. For the increasingly large population of diagnosed and undiagnosed patients, Andembry provides a new level of confidence and control in managing a condition long known to be capricious and highly restrictive.

fda approves once-monthly injection for hereditary angioedema; what it means for long-term treatment?

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Migraines have been the bane of millions—debilitating, unpredictable, and extremely difficult to treat but a new challenger has entered the fray: a group of medications that have become synonymous with weight loss. Recent studies indicate that GLP-1 receptor agonists medications such as liraglutide, widely prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity could radically cut migraine frequency, giving fresh hope to sufferers.

New research, presented at the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) Congress 2025, may herald a new era in neurological care by re-purposing a currently available medication for a new, impactful application.

GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy replicate the body's natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which is crucial in maintaining blood sugar levels, hunger, and digestion. These medications are widely used to treat diabetes and help achieve long-term weight loss. However, more and more, their influences on the nervous system and intracranial pressure are capturing neurologists' attention.

In their research, scientists investigated whether GLP-1 medications could alleviate migraines not by causing weight loss, but through another mechanism by lowering pressure in the cerebrospinal fluid, a lesser-known migraine attack factor.

The pilot study, conducted by Dr. Simone Braca and his team at the Headache Centre, University of Naples, included 26 adults with chronic or frequent migraines who were obese. The subjects took daily doses of 1.8 mg liraglutide, the standard dose employed to treat type 2 diabetes, for 12 weeks.

The study findings were remarkable, volunteers saw their average monthly headache days plummet dramatically from 20 to just 9. Almost half of the participants reported at least a 50% decrease in frequency of migraines, which makes the drug a potential breakthrough medication. Besides fewer migraines, volunteers also reported improved daily functioning, work productivity, and social activity. Although mild side effects including nausea and constipation were noted, no participants dropped out of the treatment, highlighting the drug's overall tolerability.

Even more persuasively, researchers pointed out that weight loss was modest and statistically not significant meaning that the relief from migraine could not be attributed to losing weight but may be associated with deeper neurological mechanisms.

<h2>May Pressure Be the Secret Trigger?</h2>

One of the central hypotheses to which the researchers give consideration relates to intracranial pressure. Migraine patients tend to exhibit elevated cerebrospinal fluid pressure, which can irritate brain structures and intensify headaches. Liraglutide, as with other GLP-1 agonists, seems to slow CSF secretion, thus possibly relieving pressure within the skull.

Though the precise mechanism remains under investigation, this hypothesis is upheld by previous research indicating that GLP-1 medications were beneficial in treating idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), an uncommon disorder characterized by increased pressure in the brain.

In order to separate migraines from IIH in this research, subjects were screened to rule out individuals with papilledema (swelling of the optic disc) and sixth nerve palsy, both signs of increased intracranial pressure.

<h2>What This Means for People Who Experience Migraine?</h2>

The idea of drug repurposing—identifying new applications for existing drugs—is catching on in medicine. Because liraglutide is already approved and heavily prescribed to treat diabetes and obesity, its migraine-reducing potential may accelerate its transition for this new purpose.

"The improvement persisted throughout the entire three-month observation time, despite modest weight loss," said lead study author Dr. Braca. "The majority of patients improved within the first two weeks."

Since migraines afflict more than 6 million individuals in the UK alone, and millions worldwide, an easily tolerated, easily accessible drug which could cut their number by almost half is a major advancement.

Migraine is more than just a headache—it's a neurological disorder with severe consequences for everyday life. Attacks can persist for 72 hours, involving pounding pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and increased sensitivity to light, sound, and odour. Chronic migraine, being 15 or more headache days in a month, impacts work productivity, mental health, and quality of life.

For some, traditional treatments like triptans, anti-seizure drugs, and injections of Botox don't work or are accompanied by significant side effects. A new group of therapy that treats migraines by a different process might extend the field of available options to millions of patients.

<h2>How It Affects To Long-Term Applications?</h2>

Although the pilot study presents encouraging findings, scientists advise that larger randomized controlled trials should be conducted. Future studies will include direct measurement of intracranial pressure and investigate whether other GLP-1 medications, possibly with reduced gastrointestinal side effects, could yield similar findings.

We're just scratching the surface of what these drugs can do," Dr. Roberto De Simone, a team member senior to many, said. "We're optimistic that this might unlock a new avenue in treating not only migraines, but even other neurologically-related conditions.

Already, GLP-1 drugs are in the pipelines as potential treatments for stroke risk reduction, Alzheimer's disease, and even addiction—implying their therapeutic scope may be much wider than initially believed.

For decades, migraine patients have tried in vain to find relief. With this new study, a familiar medication could soon provide an unsuspecting answer. If subsequent studies validate the research, GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide could revolutionize migraine treatment—giving patients not only fewer headache days, but improved lives.

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migraine research 2025

chronic headache medication

Migraines have been the bane of millions—debilitating, unpredictable, and extremely difficult to treat but a new challenger has entered the fray: a group of medications that have become synonymous with weight loss. Recent studies indicate that GLP-1 receptor agonists medications such as liraglutide, widely prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity could radically cut migraine frequency, giving fresh hope to sufferers.New research, presented at the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) Congress 2025, may herald a new era in neurological care by re-purposing a currently available medication for a new, impactful application.GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy replicate the body's natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which is crucial in maintaining blood sugar levels, hunger, and digestion. These medications are widely used to treat diabetes and help achieve long-term weight loss. However, more and more, their influences on the nervous system and intracranial pressure are capturing neurologists' attention.In their research, scientists investigated whether GLP-1 medications could alleviate migraines not by causing weight loss, but through another mechanism by lowering pressure in the cerebrospinal fluid, a lesser-known migraine attack factor.The pilot study, conducted by Dr. Simone Braca and his team at the Headache Centre, University of Naples, included 26 adults with chronic or frequent migraines who were obese. The subjects took daily doses of 1.8 mg liraglutide, the standard dose employed to treat type 2 diabetes, for 12 weeks.The study findings were remarkable, volunteers saw their average monthly headache days plummet dramatically from 20 to just 9. Almost half of the participants reported at least a 50% decrease in frequency of migraines, which makes the drug a potential breakthrough medication. Besides fewer migraines, volunteers also reported improved daily functioning, work productivity, and social activity. Although mild side effects including nausea and constipation were noted, no participants dropped out of the treatment, highlighting the drug's overall tolerability.Even more persuasively, researchers pointed out that weight loss was modest and statistically not significant meaning that the relief from migraine could not be attributed to losing weight but may be associated with deeper neurological mechanisms.May Pressure Be the Secret Trigger?One of the central hypotheses to which the researchers give consideration relates to intracranial pressure. Migraine patients tend to exhibit elevated cerebrospinal fluid pressure, which can irritate brain structures and intensify headaches. Liraglutide, as with other GLP-1 agonists, seems to slow CSF secretion, thus possibly relieving pressure within the skull.Though the precise mechanism remains under investigation, this hypothesis is upheld by previous research indicating that GLP-1 medications were beneficial in treating idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), an uncommon disorder characterized by increased pressure in the brain.In order to separate migraines from IIH in this research, subjects were screened to rule out individuals with papilledema (swelling of the optic disc) and sixth nerve palsy, both signs of increased intracranial pressure.What This Means for People Who Experience Migraine?The idea of drug repurposing—identifying new applications for existing drugs—is catching on in medicine. Because liraglutide is already approved and heavily prescribed to treat diabetes and obesity, its migraine-reducing potential may accelerate its transition for this new purpose."The improvement persisted throughout the entire three-month observation time, despite modest weight loss," said lead study author Dr. Braca. "The majority of patients improved within the first two weeks."Since migraines afflict more than 6 million individuals in the UK alone, and millions worldwide, an easily tolerated, easily accessible drug which could cut their number by almost half is a major advancement.Migraine is more than just a headache—it's a neurological disorder with severe consequences for everyday life. Attacks can persist for 72 hours, involving pounding pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and increased sensitivity to light, sound, and odour. Chronic migraine, being 15 or more headache days in a month, impacts work productivity, mental health, and quality of life.For some, traditional treatments like triptans, anti-seizure drugs, and injections of Botox don't work or are accompanied by significant side effects. A new group of therapy that treats migraines by a different process might extend the field of available options to millions of patients.How It Affects To Long-Term Applications?Although the pilot study presents encouraging findings, scientists advise that larger randomized controlled trials should be conducted. Future studies will include direct measurement of intracranial pressure and investigate whether other GLP-1 medications, possibly with reduced gastrointestinal side effects, could yield similar findings.We're just scratching the surface of what these drugs can do," Dr. Roberto De Simone, a team member senior to many, said. "We're optimistic that this might unlock a new avenue in treating not only migraines, but even other neurologically-related conditions.Already, GLP-1 drugs are in the pipelines as potential treatments for stroke risk reduction, Alzheimer's disease, and even addiction—implying their therapeutic scope may be much wider than initially believed.For decades, migraine patients have tried in vain to find relief. With this new study, a familiar medication could soon provide an unsuspecting answer. If subsequent studies validate the research, GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide could revolutionize migraine treatment—giving patients not only fewer headache days, but improved lives.

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