FDA Authorizes First Prescription Digital Therapeutic for Migraine: A New Era in Headache Care

Written By: Dr. Nandini L

The Digital Revolution Hits Migraine Treatment

Imagine managing your migraines not just with pills but with a smartphone app prescribed by your doctor. That’s now a reality. In a landmark move, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized CT-132, the first-ever prescription digital therapeutic (PDT) designed to prevent episodic migraines in adults.

What Is CT-132?

CT-132 is a mobile app developed by Click Therapeutics, intended for adults 18 and older who suffer from episodic migraines. Unlike over-the-counter headache apps, CT-132 is clinically validated and must be prescribed by a healthcare provider. It’s designed to be used alongside standard migraine medications, not as a replacement.

How Does It Work?

●     Behavioral and Cognitive Tools: The app delivers a 12-week program using evidence-based behavioral techniques, including elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, to help users manage migraine triggers and reduce brain hypersensitivity. 

●     Daily Engagement: Features include an eDiary tracker and short, daily lessons to encourage consistent use and self-awareness.  

●     Adjunctive Use: It’s meant to complement, not substitute, existing acute and preventive treatments, including newer medications like CGRP inhibitors.

The Science Behind the App

The FDA’s decision was based on robust clinical evidence:

●     ReMMi-D Trial: Involving over 500 adults, this phase 3 study compared CT-132 to a sham (placebo) digital therapeutic. Patients using CT-132 experienced a significant reduction in monthly migraine days, approximately three days per month after 12 weeks, along with improved quality of life and high adherence rates.

●  ReMMiD-C Study: This trial confirmed similar benefits for patients already taking advanced migraine medications, such as CGRP inhibitors.

●  Notably, CT-132 showed no device-related adverse events and carries no contraindications, making it a safe adjunct for most adults with episodic migraines.

Why Is This a Big Deal? Expanding Access and Options

For the 37 million adults in the U.S. living with migraines, many still struggle with frequent, debilitating attacks despite available medications. CT-132 offers:

● Accessibility: Imagine having your migraine care delivered right to your phone, anywhere, anytime. CT-132 offers this convenience, providing a sense of relief for those managing their condition.

● Personalization: For those who haven’t found relief with drugs alone, CT-132 offers a new tool. Its personalized approach makes users feel understood and catered to.

● Scalability: Digital therapeutics like CT-132 can reach patients who lack easy access to specialists or in-person care. This scalability offers hope for those in remote areas or with limited healthcare resources.

Real-Life Impact

Think of someone who’s tried every medication but still misses work or family events due to migraines. With CT-132, they can incorporate a clinically proven, non-invasive tool into their treatment plan, potentially increasing the number of headache-free days without additional side effects.

What’s Next for Digital Therapeutics?

CT-132’s FDA authorization marks more than just a win for migraine sufferers. It signals a shift in how we approach treating complex conditions—combining traditional medicine with intelligent, software-based interventions. Click Therapeutics is already exploring similar digital solutions for depression and diabetes, with more on the horizon.

Quick Facts: CT-132 at a Glance

Feature        Details

Indication: Preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults

Platform       Smartphone app (prescription-only)

Use    an Adjunct to standard migraine medications

Clinical Results     ~3 fewer migraine days/month after 12 weeks

Age Range: Adults 18+

FDA Pathway        De Novo (first-of-its-kind technology)

Safety: No device-related adverse events; no contraindications

Summary:

The FDA’s authorization of CT-132 marks a significant milestone in migraine care, combining the benefits of digital health with proven medical therapies. For patients and clinicians alike, it opens the door to more personalized, accessible, and effective migraine management—right at your fingertips.

If you or someone you know struggles with migraines, ask your healthcare provider about this new digital option. The future of headache relief may be just an app away.

  1. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/fda-authorizes-first-prescription-digital-therapeutic-2025a1000993
  2. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/medtech/fda-clears-its-first-prescription-migraine-app-click-therapeutics
  3. https://www.neurologylive.com/view/fda-approves-ct-132-as-first-digital-therapeutic-preventive-treatment-episodic-migraine
  4. https://pharmatimes.com/news/fda-approves-clicks-digital-therapeutic-for-episodic-migraine/
  5. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/personal-milestone-fda-authorizes-ct-132-first-app-shaheen-e-3ar9e
  6. https://community.hlth.com/insights/the-talk-of-the-town/fda-authorizes-click-therapeutics-prescription-digital-therapeutic-for-migraine-prevention-2025-04-16
  7. https://xtalks.com/fda-clears-ct-132-first-prescription-digital-therapeutic-for-migraine-prevention-4190/
  8. https://www.epocrates.com/online/article/fda-approves-first-digital-therapeutic-for-migraine-prevention
  9. https://www.neurologylive.com/view/valtoco-gains-expanded-indication-fda-approves-digital-therapeutic-migraine-phase-1-study-amx0114-als-begins
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