In this week’s episode of Talking Head Pain, Joe is joined by Dr. Nina Riggins, a board-certified neurologist who specializes in headache medicine and traumatic brain injury. The episode sheds lights on the intersection of migraine, weight management, and the impact of a new class of weight-loss drugs, GLP-1 agonists. Joe provides his own patient insight by sharing his personal experience with weight loss and migraine. Together, they also discuss the importance of a patient-specific plan and open communication between doctors and patients.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:47: Dr. Riggins discusses her excitement about the conversation around lifestyle, new medications, and new ways to treat migraine and headaches, along with the approach to weight loss

02:08: Joe talks about his own struggle with weight issues and the need for a more nuanced approach when addressing weight loss or gain in patients

03:47: Dr. Riggins explains the research she presented at the American Headache Society's meeting, focusing on GLP-1 agonists and their potential effects on people with migraine

05:10: Dr. Riggins delves into the multiple ways GLP-1 agonists work, including blood pressure control and blood sugar regulation

08:21: Joe shares the unexpected effects his weight-loss journey had on his migraine and overall health

11:45: Dr. Riggins elaborates on the changes that can occur when starting GLP-1 agonists

14:14: Joe emphasizes the importance of creating shared decisions between patients and providers for a successful treatment plan

16:20: Dr. Riggins discusses how medication may affect hunger and cravings and also elaborates on the role of energy in the migraine theory

18:56: Joe brings up how calorie deficits might initially make one feel tired

21:52: Joe and Dr. Nina discuss the Spoon Theory

Contact Our Hosts:

Joe Coe, Director, Therapeutic Area Growth and Integration at GHLF: jcoe@ghlf.org

Sarah Shaw, Senior Manager of BIPOC Community Outreach at GHLF: sshaw@ghlf.org

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