The Future of Migraine Research
Change can be good and bad for migraine warriors. For instance, I’m thankful migraine treatments have evolved from drilling holes in people’s heads to taking a pill. On the other hand, the United States has been undergoing much radical change in 2025 that I find unsettling on many levels. The change to migraine research is especially disconcerting to me personally. When health organizations' funding began to be slashed, I asked myself, “How will these changes affect migraine sufferers?”
The history of migraine disease has seen plenty of changes in knowledge and treatments. In ancient times, people believed evil spirits caused migraines or thought that gods used migraines to punish people. Early physicians like Hippocrates believed an imbalance of body fluids was the culprit and recommended bloodletting as a remedy. The Middle Ages spawned treatments influenced by religious beliefs like charms and prayers. Massages, baths, and dietary changes became popular as well.
In the 18th century, a scientific approach to medicine came into favor, and with the new emphasis on science, advancements in medical knowledge began to grow. Pharmaceutical experiments began, scientists discovered the circulatory system, and theories about the vascular component of migraines emerged.
In the 19th century, physicians learned more about neurology and its connection to migraine. In 1881, a British physician published studies that identified distinct types of migraines and set them apart from other headaches.
Migraine research exploded in the 20th century due to advanced imaging technology like EEG, MRI, and CT scans. Advanced imagery shed light on the mechanics of an episode, including the involvement of serotonin receptors. Triptan drugs, introduced in the 1990s, targeted those serotonin receptors and provided miraculous relief to people with migraines, me included. Studies also led to preventive medications like beta-blockers and emphasized the importance of lifestyle management techniques to reduce exposure to triggers.
Triptan drugs didn’t work for everyone, so research continued into the 21st century. Clinical trials for CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) related treatments for migraine prevention have gained ground and given migraine sufferers another line of attack. Because each migraineur has their own version of the illness, genetic studies are now focusing on a more individual approach to treatment based on genetic markers.
So, what happens next? Therein lies the problem.
Federal spending cuts to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the primary funding organization for migraine research, could impact current and future migraine studies. The reduced funding for migraine research has led to uncertainty in the field due to the cancellation of grant reviews. Funding cuts mean job cuts. With fewer job opportunities available in migraine research, young researchers are likely to take their valuable skills elsewhere.
New policies regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) also have the potential to negatively impact migraine research and treatment. Genetics – including gender and race – play a role in migraine disease. Using the words “women” and “people of color” in research grant proposals would violate the 2025 anti-DEI executive orders and cause cancellation of important funding.
Personally, I want every migraine warrior on the planet to live a happy, pain-free life. I believe that investing in migraine research can improve workforce productivity, lower long-term health care costs, and improve the lives of millions of Americans. I certainly hope our government policies don’t return us to drilling holes in people’s heads. One thing I know for certain, I’m a migraine warrior who votes, and my vote will always go to those who care about the well-being of people.
Originally published at WebMD.com on 12/15/25.
