Effectiveness of neuromodulation techniques for migraine prophylaxis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Given limited efficacy and potential complications of pharmacological approaches, neuromodulation techniques are emerging as non-pharmacological alternatives for migraine prevention. The present study aimed to conduct a systematic review and network meta-analysis to compare the effectiveness of neurostimulation interventions for migraine prophylaxis. METHODS: The PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Web of Science, Embase, Clinicaltrials.gov, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chongqing VIP, Wanfang, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, and International Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Trial Registry databases were systematically searched up to February 7th, 2025 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Outcomes of interest were changes in monthly migraine days, response rate and changes in pain intensity. Network meta-analyses were based on a Bayesian framework. RESULTS: Forty RCTs (N = 4341; mean age = 38.7 years; % females = 81.2) were included in the network meta-analysis. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), percutaneous mastoid electrical stimulation (PMES), supraorbital transcutaneous stimulation (STS), and acupuncture were associated with significant improvements in migraine frequency, response rate and pain severity. Both invasive and non-invasive occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) demonstrated significantly higher response rates relative to sham controls. Among all the…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 4,341 participants or records.
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