FDA Has Approved A New Medication Treatment For Migraines In Adults

Updated Feb 6, 2025 | 05:09 PM IST

SummaryMany people use the terms ‘migraine’ and ‘headache’ interchangeably. This leads many people to believe that migraines are not as serious as people make them out to be, and that cannot be more wrong, migraines have a major effect on a person’s lifestyle and the new approved medication may prove to be a great relief!
(Credit-Canva)

(Credit-Canva)

Headaches are a common symptom of a stressful lifestyle, your body not feeling well and other issues. While headaches can be dealt with easily, migraines are not so easy to handle. Migraines are a type of headache that feels like severe throbbing and pulsing sensation, almost like you are hearing your own heartbeat in your brain, usually on one side of the brain. Many people believe that migraines are not that big of a deal because you just have to deal with the pain, but that is not all migraine is, some people find it very difficult to do their daily tasks as they experience dizzying spells, nausea and extreme sensitivity to light and sound! These attacks can last hours and make it difficult for people to go about their daily lives as well. While there are medications available for migraine patients, these medications need time to take effect, so you may be in a lot of pain, but there are not many quick reliefs you can have in place other than learning the symptoms of a migraine attack and taking medication before it happens. But a new approval by the FDA may change this!

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Symbravo, a new medicine to treat acute migraine attacks in adults. This means adults can now use Symbravo to get relief from their migraine symptoms. The FDA's decision was based on the results of three big studies, called Phase 3 trials. These trials involved over 21,000 migraine attacks, so the FDA has a lot of information about how well Symbravo works and how safe it is. The FDA only approves medicines that have been shown to be both safe and effective through a thorough testing process.

Importance of New Treatment Option

"Migraine attacks can happen suddenly and really mess up people's lives. It's estimated that over 39 million people in the U.S. alone get migraines," said Herriot Tabuteau, M.D., CEO of Axsome Therapeutics told US News. This shows how common migraines are and how important it is to have good treatments. "Symbravo gives patients and doctors a new option that can quickly stop a migraine attack, keep it away, and let people get back to their normal activities, all with just one dose." Having a medicine that can give fast and long-lasting relief from migraine pain is a big deal for millions of people. This new treatment is a real step forward in how we treat migraines.

Symbravo Trial Results, How Was It Approved

The trials took place in 3 steps, the Momentum trial study focused on people whose migraines had moderate to severe pain. The results showed that a lot more people taking Symbravo felt pain-free two hours after taking the medicine compared to those who took a placebo which is a dummy pill. Even better, many people felt relief for up to 24 and even 48 hours after just one dose. This long-lasting relief is really important for people with migraines because it means they can get back to their normal lives without worrying about the pain coming back. The study also looked at how many people were free from their worst symptom, like sensitivity to light or sound, or nausea. Symbravo worked better than the placebo in this area too.

While the intercept trial looked at people who took Symbravo when their migraine pain was still mild. Even when the pain was just starting, Symbravo was effective. The results were similar to the MOMENTUM trial, with many people getting pain relief and relief from their worst symptoms. Treating migraines early is often better because it can stop the pain from getting really bad.

And lastly the Movement trial which was to see how safe the medication is when people take it regularly. This study followed 706 people who had at least two migraines a month. The most common side effects people experienced were sleepiness and dizziness. While these side effects are important to know about, the study showed that Symbravo is generally safe for people to use on a regular basis.

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Bryan Johnson's New 2.6M Women's Health Project Centers on Girlfriend's Menstrual Blood

Updated Jul 31, 2026 | 06:00 PM IST

SummaryBryan, who has said he is living with the autoimmune condition autoimmune atrophic gastritis (AIG) and is undergoing treatment, believes advances in AI and biotechnology could help find treatments for both his condition and Kate's endometriosis.
Bryan Johnson's New $2.6M Women's Health Project Centers On Girlfriend's Menstrual Blood

Credit: Instagram

Millionaire longevity entrepreneur Bryan Johnson has launched a new $2.6 million women's health research project focused on his partner, Kate Tolo's menstrual blood.

Known for his unconventional longevity experiments, Johnson is now aiming to better understand women's reproductive health by preserving and studying Kate's menstrual blood.

“Kate’s period blood is in my -80 °C freezer. Around 10 mL,” he shared in a post on social media platform X.

He added that “menstrual blood is valuable and underutilized,” as it contains “endometrial cells, immune cells and stem cells.”

Why Is Bryan Johnson Studying Menstrual Blood?

Calling both himself and Kate "science experiments," Johnson said the 100-day project aims to:

  • Look for diseased tissue
  • Measure microplastics
  • Measure endocrine disruptors
  • Measure PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)

“It’s a non-invasive look into the uterus. This is great because you get the data without surgical biopsy, it can be repeated every single cycle, and it measures the uterine environment directly instead of inferring it from a standard blood draw,” Bryan said.

Also read: Bryan Johnson Plans To Create 'Bryan In A Dish' Living Lab To Test Experimental Autoimmune Treatments

Inside the $2.6 Million 100-Day Project

The project requires Kate to follow an intensive 24/7 routine designed to create what the couple says will be the most detailed dataset ever collected on the female menstrual cycle.

Her minute-by-minute schedule includes more than 100 daily tasks, 50 monitoring devices, and an experimental "techno tampon," generating an estimated 14 million data points under the supervision of a 12-person medical team.

"I am going to be the world's most measured women in this process," Kate shared in in a video posted on Instagram.

The project, backed by the couple's company Immortals, costs an estimated $2.6 million a year.

Kate will collect approximately 14 million data points on her menstrual cycle.

Read More: Bryan Johnson Blames Sugary Cereals, Soda and Stress for His Autoimmune Disease; Shares Treatment Plan

Kate Tolo's Health Conditions

Kate has previously revealed that she has endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and adenomyosis—painful gynecological conditions that she hopes this ambitious research project will help better understand and eventually treat.

“I’m measuring 1,900 biomarkers over the next 100 days to better understand female biology,” she said.

“This will be the most quantified menstrual cycle ever. And this is just to collect baseline measurements. Once we’re done with the 100 days, we’ll start trying interventions. We’ll post all results, including the good, bad and ugly, in addition to sharing all the practical insights,” Bryan added on X.

Earlier, Bryan claimed his team diagnosed Kate's endometriosis “in 42 days… which is 57x faster than average.” The condition affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age globally and takes an average of 10 years to diagnose.

According to Bryan, his team diagnosed her “without surgery. Via ultrasound, blood test, and MRI.”

Bryan Johnson's Goal

Bryan, who has said he is living with the autoimmune condition autoimmune atrophic gastritis (AIG) and is undergoing treatment, believes advances in AI and biotechnology could help find treatments for both his condition and Kate's endometriosis.

“My sincere goal is to try and heal the sick. With AI and biotech, we no longer have to concede to disease. We don’t need to wait for big, billion-dollar companies to do it for us. I’ll cure my AIG, and we will cure Kate’s endo, and then make the same available to others.”

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UK Reports Sharp Rise in Cyclospora Infections Linked to Mexico Travel: What Foods Must Travelers Avoid?

Updated Jul 31, 2026 | 05:00 PM IST

SummaryThe UKHSA reported 67 cases between April 30 and July 15, among returning travelers from Mexico. Notably, the US FDA has also linked the Cyclospora outbreak to iceberg lettuce grown by Taylor Farms in central Mexico, prompting the company to initiate a recall earlier this month.
UK Reports Sharp Rise in Cyclospora Infections Linked to Mexico Travel: What Foods Must Travelers Avoid?

Credit: UKHSA

Amid as many as 45 states in the US battling Cyclospora parasite infections, the UK has now reported a sharp rise in watery diarrhea-causing infections among travelers returning from Mexico.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) clarified that cyclospora, caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, does not naturally occur in the UK and cannot spread from person to person.

The agency has advised travelers to take precautions while abroad, including maintaining good food and water hygiene to reduce their risk of infection.

According to the latest data, 67 cases were reported between April 30 and July 15, among returning travelers in

  • England (30),
  • Scotland (27),
  • Wales (10).
This marks a notable increase compared with the annual average of 93 cases recorded between 2022 and 2025, the UKHSA said.

The agency noted that travel information was available for 52 of the 67 cases. Of these, 48 people had traveled to Mexico, with one also reporting travel to the US. One case involved travel only to the US, while another had traveled to Kenya.

Among those who visited Mexico, cases reported staying at various hotels in the Riviera Maya and Cancún regions and consuming a range of foods and drinks as part of all-inclusive holiday packages. Investigations into the source of the infections are ongoing, the UKHSA said.

"We have recently detected a rise in Cyclospora infections among travelers returning from Mexico. These infections are caused by a parasite and can affect the stomach and intestines," said Dr. Philip Veal, Consultant in Travel Health at UKHSA.

"If you develop symptoms after returning from travel, such as watery diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, bloating, increased wind, nausea, fatigue or other flu-like symptoms, please seek medical attention and inform your healthcare professional of your travel history," he added.

Cyclospora Outbreak In US: The Mexico Connection

Also read: Michigan Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Nears 10,000 Cases: Is Your Lettuce Safe?

The US is experiencing its largest Cyclospora outbreak, with infections reported across 45 states. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has linked the outbreak to iceberg lettuce grown by Taylor Farms in central Mexico, prompting the company to initiate a recall on July 17.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) weekly update on July 28, there have been 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases of the illness, recorded in 45 states, since May 1. In addition, more than 11,500 additional cases, primarily in Michigan and Ohio, have not yet been confirmed by laboratories, the CDC said.

There have been 423 hospitalizations and no deaths, per the agency.

Foods Travelers Should Avoid

Dr. Philip Veal advised travelers to Mexico to avoid foods that may be contaminated with Cyclospora, particularly:

  • Fresh, uncooked berries
  • Fresh herbs
  • Unpeeled fruits
  • Raw salad items
  • Ice in drinks
  • Smoothies and juices that may contain raw fruits or vegetables

Read More: UK, France Brace for Another Heatwave: How Hot Weather Can Affect Medicines

Further, to reduce the risk of infection, the UKHSA also recommended:

  • Washing hands regularly with soap and clean water. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer only when handwashing facilities are unavailable.
  • Drinking bottled or boiled water where tap water is unsafe, including for brushing teeth.
  • Choosing fruit that can be peeled, such as bananas and oranges.
  • Opting for pasteurized dairy products.
  • Eating freshly cooked food served hot.
  • Following good food and water hygiene practices, even when staying at high-end all-inclusive resorts.

What Is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora is a parasite that infects the stomach and intestines and is typically acquired by consuming contaminated food or water.

Symptoms include:

  • Frequent watery diarrhoea
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Bloating
  • Nausea
  • Excessive gas (flatulence)
  • Low-grade fever
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss

Most cases are mild and resolve within a few days without treatment. However, the illness can be more severe or prolonged in people with weakened immune systems, who may require antibiotic treatment.

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Vibrio Vulnificus: US Records First Flesh-eating Bacteria Death Of 2026

Updated Jul 31, 2026 | 12:11 PM IST

SummaryWhile rare, the infection can cause necrotizing fasciitis. It is a condition where flesh-eating bacteria could destroy the tissue under the skin and can lead to death in just a few days if left untreated.
Vibrio Vulnificus: US Records First Flesh-eating Bacteria Death Of 2026

Credit: iStock

Vibrio vulnificus, a rare "flesh-eating" bacterium, has claimed its first life of 2026 in the US state of Florida, according to state health officials.

Florida health data show that, as of July 30, the state has reported 12 confirmed cases this year, including one death in an elderly person in Palm Beach County. In 2025, Florida recorded 33 Vibrio vulnificus infections and five deaths linked to the bacterium.

What Is Vibrio Vulnificus?

Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacterium found in warm saltwater or brackish water, which is a mix of salt and freshwater. It thrives particularly well during the hotter months, which is why infections spike from May through October.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the bacterium is halophilic, meaning it needs salt to survive.

While rare, the infection can cause necrotizing fasciitis. It is a condition where flesh-eating bacteria could destroy the tissue under the skin and can lead to death in just a few days if left untreated.

How People Get Infected?

The bacterium earned its "flesh-eating" moniker from its ability to cause an infection called vibriosis that damages or "eats away" at skin and tissue.

According to Dr. Norman Beatty, an infectious disease specialist and associate professor at the University of Florida, as reported by WUSF, there are two main ways people typically contract Vibrio vulnificus.

“We can consume it through contaminated shellfish, specifically oysters,” Beatty said. If ingested, the bacteria can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

But the more dangerous and more common route, he explains, is through open wounds. “If someone with a cut or scrape enters brackish or saltwater contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus, the bacteria can enter the body through the skin and cause serious infection,” he warned.

Also read: Rare Tick-Borne Bourbon Virus Case Detected In New York For The First Time

Symptoms To Watch For

Symptoms often appear quickly; sometimes within hours of exposure. Early signs include redness, pain, and swelling around the wound. As the infection progresses, it can cause skin ulcers, blisters, and even tissue death. Systemic symptoms like fever, chills, and low blood pressure may also follow.

“A delay in treatment can lead to serious complications, including amputations or even death,” Dr. Beatty cautioned.

Who’s Most at Risk?

People with weakened immune systems, liver disease, or chronic health conditions are at greater risk of developing severe infections. But Dr. Beatty emphasized that even healthy individuals aren’t immune.

“I’ve seen otherwise healthy people who got a small cut while fishing or kayaking and ended up battling this infection,” he said.

How to Stay Safe?

Read More: Milestone In Kala-Azar Treatment: WHO Updates Treatment Guidelines, Recommends Shorter & Safer Regimens

With summer in full swing and more people spending time in and around water, doctors urge caution. If you have an open wound, avoid wading or swimming in warm seawater or brackish water. If exposure happens accidentally, clean the wound immediately with soap and bottled water. Covering healing wounds with waterproof bandages can also reduce the risk of infection.

If symptoms develop after being in such water or consuming raw seafood, particularly oysters, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor of your recent exposure.

A Persistent Health Threat

An average of 100 to 200 cases of vibriosis caused by Vibrio vulnificus are reported in the United States each year, with most of them in Gulf Coast states, according to CDC data. “This is not a bacteria to take lightly. With increased awareness and a bit of caution, we can lower the risk and save lives,” Dr. Beatty said.

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