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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Western Australia Records 22 Mpox Infections In 2026; Seven Reported Last Week

Updated Jun 2, 2026 | 08:00 PM IST

SummaryNineteen of the cases were acquired locally, while three were linked to overseas travel. Two of the cases reported this year were in cisgender women, a first for Western Australia. Another two cases were reported in heterosexual men, the officials said.
Western Australia Records 22 Mpox Infections In 2026; Seven Reported Last Week

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Western Australia is seeing a steady rise in mpox infections, with seven cases reported during the past week, according to the Department of Health.

In a statement, the department said that 22 mpox cases have been reported in Western Australia so far in 2026. The figure marks a significant increase compared with 2025, when 27 cases were recorded throughout the entire year, and 2024, which saw 23 cases.

Health Authorities Urge Vigilance

Health officials have advised the public to remain alert for symptoms of the disease. Public health investigations and contact tracing are also underway to prevent further transmission.

Nineteen of the cases were acquired locally, while three were linked to overseas travel. Two of the cases reported this year were in cisgender women, a first for Western Australia. Another two cases were reported in heterosexual men, the officials said.

Dr. Paul Armstrong, Director of Communicable Disease Control, said the department was working closely with affected individuals and their contacts to help prevent further spread of the virus.

“Mpox is a viral infection that typically causes mild illness, including fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, or fatigue, followed by a skin rash or lesions,” Dr Armstrong said.

“It does not spread easily between people and is mainly transmitted through very close or intimate contact with an infected person.

“While anyone can contract mpox, recent cases in Australia and internationally have occurred more commonly among sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men,” the expert said.

Vaccination Recommended For High-Risk Groups

Dr Armstrong encouraged eligible people in Western Australia to consider vaccination, particularly before travelling to countries experiencing mpox transmission.

“The mpox vaccine is available through sexual health clinics and participating GPs for people at higher risk of exposure,” he said.

“Two doses are recommended for optimal protection, and vaccination can reduce the risk of infection and severe disease.”

Anyone concerned they may have been exposed to mpox, or experiencing symptoms consistent with the infection, should call ahead before attending a healthcare facility so appropriate precautions can be arranged.

What Is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox.

The virus spreads through close physical contact with an infected person, contaminated materials, or infected animals.

The illness generally lasts between two and four weeks and resolves on its own. However, severe disease can occur, particularly in children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.

Complications may include secondary infections, respiratory problems, and, in rare cases, death.

How Can Mpox Be Prevented?

Also read: India Makes Significant Progress In Maternal Care, Nutrition And Child Immunization: NFHS-6

Vaccination: Vaccines originally developed for smallpox can help protect against mpox. Health authorities recommend vaccination for people at higher risk of exposure.

Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals and contaminated materials, and following public health guidance can reduce the risk of infection.

Early Detection And Monitoring: People who develop symptoms or believe they may have been exposed should seek medical advice promptly. Laboratory testing, including RT-PCR, is available to confirm infection and support timely treatment and contact tracing.

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Malaysia Cracks Down On Online Promotion, Sale Of Vapes, Smoking Products

Updated Jun 2, 2026 | 01:52 PM IST

SummaryGlobally, 33 countries ban the sale of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), a category that includes e-cigarettes and vapes, according to a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report. Another 87 countries regulate the sale of ENDS.
Malaysia Cracks Down On Online Promotion, Sale Of Vapes, Smoking Products

Credit: iStock

Once marketed as a safer alternative to cigarettes, research now shows that vapes carry serious health risks, including lung damage, meningitis, and cancer.

Unlike cigarettes, these devices are often ready to use, brightly colored, require little effort to activate, and appear more like toys than a harmful product. But due to its addictive flavor, people end up consuming more tobacco than those who smoke unflavored ones.

Globally, 33 countries ban the sale of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), a category that includes e-cigarettes and vapes, according to a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report. Another 87 countries regulate the sale of ENDS.

Malaysia has become the latest country to intensify efforts to curb vaping, with the Health Ministry launching a major crackdown on the online promotion and sale of smoking and vape products under Ops Selamat PaPa.

In a statement, the ministry said the operation aims to target the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of all types of smoking products, and protect the younger generation.

“Following its increasing and widespread use, this operation was launched to protect the younger generation from the dangers of smoking products, including electronic cigarettes and vaping,” the statement said.

“We take the complaints raised on social media over online advertising and sales of vape products suspected of violating the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) seriously," it added.

The Health Ministry said it had investigated 10 websites following the complaints and requested that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission block four of them under the provisions of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588). The remaining six websites are still under investigation, The Straits Times reported.

According to the ministry, as of April 30, a total of 34,903 enforcement operations had been carried out following inspections at 683,704 premises nationwide.

“We constantly monitor online advertising and promotion of tobacco products, including the sale of vapes. We wish to stress that there will be no compromise for those who violate laws,” the ministry said.

UK Parliament Bans Cigarettes and Vapes

The UK Parliament has passed a “landmark bill” to ban smoking among children who were born on or after 1 January 2009.

Under the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill, people aged 17 or younger face a lifelong ban on buying cigarettes. This includes a ban on selling vapes to anyone under 18 and selling them through vending machines.

Vaping A Major Threat Among Under-5s in the US

Vaping has been a serious concern in the United States, with New York Attorney General Letitia James in 2025 filing a lawsuit against e-cigarette manufacturers and distributors.

The lawsuit accused the companies of fueling a youth vaping crisis, alleging that these companies that manufacture vapes, especially with flavors, have misled consumers about the safety of their products while deliberately targeting young people through deceptive marketing.

An April 2026 study, published in JAMA Network Open, for the first time assessed trends in young children's nicotine exposures across all types of products.

Shockingly, electronic cigarette-related incidents increased 243 percent over the past eight years in young children, especially among those under five years of age, said researchers from the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.

Vaping has also become a more common form of tobacco use among American middle and high school students.

As per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1.6 million students used e-cigarettes in 2024, with 87.6 percent of them opting for a flavored product.

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Football Legend Kevin Keegan Reveals Fighting Stage Four Cancer

Updated Jun 2, 2026 | 01:41 PM IST

SummaryFormer England captain and manager, football legend Kevin Keegan, reveals his ongoing struggle with stage four cancer. He addressed his fans at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House.
Football Legend Kevin Keegan Reveals Fighting Stage Four Cancer

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One of the beloved football legends, Kevin Keegan, has revealed his ongoing fight with stage four cancer. The news of his health condition has brought on massive support and love from across the football-loving community. The man who inspired generations and contributed both as a player and manager comes forth and reveals that he is getting diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer, and the lethal disease has spread to his other body parts.

The news carried huge value as the former England captain himself talked about his health condition with his usual honesty and humor. The player hailed by his fans as "King Kev" addressed a huge audience in Newcastle. The 75-year-old veteran footballing genius unraveled his journey through the difficult times. His supporters also listened to his self-reflection on the situation completely in silence.

Former Newcastle forward and manager, standing at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House, said, "I was in a car accident and, through that, I had to have an operation. Whilst having the scan for the operation, they found out I had cancer. They said they had an absolute top doctor for fighting what you have got, which is stage four cancer."

"So I went to meet him. He's a Liverpool supporter, so I knew I wouldn't walk alone," he added and continued, "He said, 'Kevin, this new treatment, I've got a tremendous strike rate'. I said, "'What's your strike rate?' He said, '33%'. I thought it would be 80%, 90%. 33%!"

Keegan enjoyed great spells at Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton, and Newcastle during his illustrious career. Later, he led Newcastle, Fulham, England, and Manchester City.

The player, also popular for his perm hairstyle, was a famous face in British television as a guest on shows and part of an advertisement campaign. He also took part in a public information short-film teaching youngsters how to cross the road. He also brought several pop singles and had a memorable appearance on the television show Superstars.

Also Read: Potential 'Functional Cure' For Hepatitis B: Trial Give Hope To Millions

How To Reduce The Risk Of Cancer?

Consuming a healthy and balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can reduce cancer risk.

Regular physical activity keeps the body fit and reduces the risk of breast, colon, and endometrial cancers.

Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided.

Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. Applying sunscreen with high SPF, finding shade, and avoiding tanning beds would save you from harmful ultraviolet rays.

Also Read: Space Grown Stem Cells: How Are Expedition 74 Astronauts Helping To Fight Cancer?

Long-term stress can weaken the immune system and may contribute to an increased risk of cancer. Incorporating stress-relief techniques such as mindfulness, practising deep-breathing exercises, and engaging in enjoyable hobbies can enhance overall well-being.

Exposure to environmental elements like pesticides, pollutants, and workplace chemicals can increase the risk of cancer. To avoid this risk, wearing protective gear, opting for organic produce, and ensuring adequate ventilation in living or working areas can greatly assist.

By vaccinating against Hepatitis B and HPV, individuals can protect themselves against infections closely linked to liver and cervical cancers; apart from vaccination, adopting proper hygiene practices and steering clear of high-risk activities can help prevent the risk of cancer-causing infections.

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