New Phase III Trial Results Showcase Efficacy of Vyepti® for Chronic Migraine in Asian Patients
Vyepti® Shows Promising Results in Treating Chronic Migraine in Asia
In a significant development for the treatment of chronic migraine, H. Lundbeck A/S has released compelling data from their SUNRISE trial, presented at the European Academy of Neurology’s annual congress in 2025. This pivotal phase III trial indicated that eptinezumab (Vyepti®) is not only effective but also provides hope to many suffering from this debilitating condition within the Asian population.
Trial Overview
The SUNRISE trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of eptinezumab compared to a placebo in a robust cohort primarily consisting of Asian patients affected by chronic migraine. A total of 983 participants were recruited for the trial, which featured a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. The results demonstrated that eptinezumab significantly reduced the mean monthly migraine days (MMDs) compared to the placebo group, with patients on eptinezumab showing reductions of -7.5 days for the 300 mg dose and -7.2 days for the 100 mg dose, compared to just -4.8 days for those on placebo (p<0.0001).
Johan Luthman, EVP and Head of R&D at Lundbeck, emphasized the unmet need for effective migraine treatments in Asia. Many patients encounter barriers to accessing appropriate migraine therapies, leading to a lack of effective management strategies. Given that acute migraine treatments often fall short, the SUNRISE trial represents a vital step toward expanding treatment opportunities.
Instant Results and Long-term Benefits
Notably, the trial’s findings highlighted that participants receiving eptinezumab were four times more likely to achieve at least a 75% reduction in their monthly migraine days within the first four weeks of treatment compared to those on placebo. Additionally, patients reported improvements as early as day one after administration.
Dr. Patricia Pozo-Rosich, a principal investigator in the trial, pointed out that this early efficacy could transform the landscape of migraine treatment, emphasizing the need for increased accessibility to migraine-specific preventative therapies.
Safety Profile and Regulatory Pathway
The safety profile of eptinezumab was found to be in line with previous studies, showing a generally acceptable tolerance. The most frequently observed side effects included nasopharyngitis and COVID-19, with the adverse effects mirroring those seen in prior clinical trials. Following the encouraging results from the SUNRISE trial, Lundbeck has begun initiating dialogue with regulatory authorities to enable broader access to eptinezumab for Asian patients battling chronic migraine.
Understanding Chronic Migraine
Chronic migraine is an intricate neurological condition marked by frequent and intense headache episodes, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to sensory stimuli. This illness is a leading cause of disability, particularly among individuals under 50 years of age, resulting in substantial impacts on personal relationships, work productivity, and overall quality of life.
Despite the high prevalence of migraine across Asia, many individuals do not receive an appropriate diagnosis or treatment. For instance, in China, it is estimated that 14.3% of adults suffer from migraines, yet a mere 13.8% receive proper confirmation of their condition. The SUNRISE trial findings are, therefore, a beacon of hope in addressing these significant healthcare gaps in the region.
Conclusion
The SUNRISE trial's results underscore an important milestone in migraine management, showcasing how eptinezumab could significantly improve the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from chronic migraines in Asia. As Lundbeck continues its efforts to make this treatment accessible, the future holds promise for many patients previously burdened by this often-mismanaged condition.