Lundbeck's recent presentation at the AAN 2026 Annual Meeting sheds light on the real-world impact of eptinezumab, a groundbreaking treatment for migraines. The INFUSE study, a 12-month observational study, reveals that eptinezumab significantly improves cognitive symptoms in patients with a history of anti-CGRP treatment failure. This is a crucial finding, as cognitive symptoms like brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making have long been overlooked in the context of migraines.
The study's 6-month interim analysis showed that over 50% of participants reported improvements in cognitive symptoms after just two doses of eptinezumab. This is particularly remarkable, as these improvements were evident as early as Day 7 post-treatment. The data highlights the pervasive nature of cognitive symptoms in migraines, with 64.7%, 60.0%, 62.6%, and 82.1% of participants reporting difficulty making decisions, reading comprehension issues, complex task difficulties, and brain fog, respectively.
Dr. Amaal Starling, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic, emphasizes the profound impact of these cognitive symptoms on patients' daily lives. She notes that 'brain fog' associated with migraines can significantly disrupt work, family interactions, and overall enjoyment of life. The INFUSE study's findings are a testament to the importance of addressing these cognitive symptoms in the management of migraines.
The study's real-world evidence is invaluable for clinical practice, as it underscores the need to consider the holistic burden of migraines. By focusing on cognitive improvements, the study demonstrates that eptinezumab can effectively address a critical aspect of migraine management that has been previously neglected.
Lundbeck's commitment to raising the standard of migraine care is evident in their enthusiasm for sharing these new data. The company's Vice President, Damian Fiore, highlights the potential of these real-world, patient-reported data to inform treatment decisions and support patients in managing the complex burden of migraines.
In conclusion, the INFUSE study's findings are a significant step forward in our understanding of migraines and their cognitive impact. Eptinezumab's ability to improve cognitive symptoms offers a glimmer of hope for patients struggling with the debilitating effects of migraines. As research continues, it is imperative to prioritize the comprehensive evaluation and management of cognitive symptoms in the treatment of this complex neurological disorder.
