Elena Gross, founder and CEO of KetoSwiss, suffers from migraines herself, as detailed in an article published by startupticker.ch. The available treatment methods were not efficient enough at easing the pain caused by migraines, which is why Gross set about developing effective alternatives with her biotech startup. In so doing, KetoSwiss discovered that certain types of migraines are caused by an energy deficit in the brain. Modern diets, which tend to be rich in carbohydrates, are in part responsible for this deficit and, aside from migraines, can also lead to neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s over time. KetoSwiss now intends to solve these issues. Following a successful capital increase, the company is now launching its first product in the USA.

Private investors have supported KetoSwiss with a convertible loan of 1.5 million Swiss francs, thereby facilitating the company’s entry onto the US market. By the end of the year, the Basel-based startup’s lead product will be on sale stateside. MigraKet is a food supplement with therapeutic effect to prevent migraines. Previous clinical studies – a Phase 2a trial has just been concluded – have found that MigraKet is both safe and effective, according to the article. The product combats the root cause of migraines and does not lead to any major side effects. KetoSwiss is now planning to establish a US subsidiary alongside the market launch of its lead product.

KetoSwiss describes its products as “fuel for brains”. They are predominantly made up of ketone bodies, which are compounds that contribute to energy production within the human body. These ketone bodies can act as a replacement for glucose in the brain at times when, for example, the transportation of glucose is compromised, which can lead to illnesses as a result. KetoSwiss is currently focusing on combating migraines, although the company is planning to turn its attention towards developing therapeutic approaches against Alzheimer’s, for example, at some point in the future.