UHP patient first in the country to be treated with new migraine drug

A patient who suffers from chronic migraines became the first person in the country to receive a new treatment at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust (UHP) last month.

Anna Walker had been suffering with debilitating migraines that left her bed bound and having to take medical retirement. However, thanks to work by the Headache team at UHP, Anna has become the first person in the country to try the new, potentially lifechanging drug, Eptinezumab.

The CGRP inhibiting drug, which is administered via an IV, has a bioavailability of 100% meaning patients will be able to benefit from the treatment immediately, rather than having to wait to see if there are any improvements as with previous treatments.  

Rebecca Stuckey, Headache Specialist Nurse at UHP, said: “These patients are not patients who get the odd headache, they are restricted from doing things that you and I take for granted, simple things like walking her dog, making a meal, being able to drive, being able to work, being able to participate in social activities.

“Any improvement in Anna’s quality of life would be fantastic. If we improve her quality of life even by 30% it would be significant for her.”

Anna received her first dose of Eptinezumab in December via an IV infusion that took just 30 minutes. Speaking during the treatment, Anna, said: “I’m so excited just at the thought. If it even worked a bit, it would be life changing.”

She went on to say, “I don’t know how many people are aware that there are proper headache specialists, but I’ve had so much help and I’ve been able to try every new medication and treatment through them so if you’re suffering please seek out your nearest headache centre.”

If you are suffering from headaches or migraines, visit your GP or go to the Migraine Trust website to see where your local headache service is based.