Migraine-Busting Armband Approved For Use In Europe

A vibrating armband that eases migraine pain created by an Israeli company has just received European approval to treat adults and adolescents. 

The Nerivio migraine bioband, developed by Netanya-based Theranica, is placed on the upper arm as soon as a migraine starts (or even used as a preventative measure), and vibrates at an intensity just below the patient’s pain threshold.

It causes nerve fibers in the body to deliver a message to the brain, where it decides that the sensation is harmless and releases neurotransmitters to prevent the sufferer from feeling pain – including in their head.

Nerivio has been available with prescription in the USA since 2020, initially for acute treatment and since April this year as a preventive treatment as well.

The device delivers 18 treatments, with each treatment lasting for 45 minutes. It is controlled by a smartphone app and is self-administered. 

“With more than 50,000 prescribed Nerivio patients now in the US, we receive numerous requests, on a weekly basis, to bring the device to Europe,” said Alon Ironi, CEO and co-founder of Theranica.

Now that the company has approval as a preventative, Ironi said, it is preparing to make Nerivio available for migraine sufferers in Europe from next year.

“Our focus is to empower underserved populations, particularly adolescents, to safely and effectively prevent and treat migraines, and be fully present in everyday life.”