A non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator (nVNS) is suitable for use as a treatment for cluster headaches in adults, a report has found.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence’s (NICE) Medtech Innovation Briefing (MIB) surmises that clinical specialists propose that electroCore’s gammaCore product is suitable for use for those who haven’t responded to or can’t tolerate available treatments.
Cluster headache is a primary headache disorder that is frequently nicknamed “suicide headache” due to its severity and has recently been recognised by the NHS as one of the top 20 most painful conditions.
Dr Nicholas Silver, consultant neurologist at The Walton Centre, Liverpool said: “Cluster headache is one of the most severe and under-recognised types of pain known to mankind. Patients may suffer for years without the correct diagnosis or treatment, and women are less likely to be recognised. Recurrent unilateral headache attacks with eye, nose and ear symptoms, agitation, sleep and mood disturbance typically cause severe disability and impact dramatically on patients, family, friends and work. The NICE publication draws on significant clinical and research experience that recognises gammaCore as an effective, non-invasive hand-held device with no known serious side effects. This is a great step forward as it will undoubtedly significantly improve the lives of many sufferers.”
The opinion of four leading clinical experts and the advocacy group, Migraine Trust, were consulted in the development of the MIB. The report contributors noted that the use of gammaCore has led to improvements for some people, allowing them to return to work and resume normal activities.
Francis R. Amato, chief executive officer of electroCore said: “We are encouraged by the findings of the report which reiterate that gammaCore is an effective treatment option for adults with this highly debilitating condition. Healthcare organisations using gammaCore can help to empower patients to take control of their condition by self-administering nVNS therapy. electroCore will continue to partner with NICE to ensure that our technology is routinely available to eligible patients on the NHS.”
