JAMA Neurol

Fremanezumab reduces migraine days and depression symptoms

May 8, 2025

Fremanezumab was effective in reducing both migraine frequency and depressive symptoms in patients suffering from both conditions. This dual benefit highlights fremanezumab as a valuable treatment option for this patient population, addressing both neurological and psychiatric aspects of their condition.

Study details: The double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, randomized UNITE trial (NCT04041284) was conducted at 55 centers across 12 countries from July 2020 to August 2022. Adults with episodic or chronic migraine and comorbid major depressive disorder (N=353) were randomized to receive monthly fremanezumab (225 mg) or placebo for 12 weeks, followed by a 12-week open-label extension with quarterly fremanezumab (675 mg).

Results: Fremanezumab significantly reduced monthly migraine days by 5.1 days vs. 2.9 days with placebo (P < .001). Additionally, it improved depressive symptoms, with a mean reduction in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-17 Items score of 6.0 points vs. 4.6 points for placebo (P = .02). Adverse events were consistent with previous fremanezumab trials, with no new safety concerns observed.

Source:

Lipton RB, et al. (2025, May 5). JAMA Neurol. Fremanezumab for the Treatment of Patients With Migraine and Comorbid Major Depressive Disorder: The UNITE Randomized Clinical Trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40323613/