How fathers and fatherhood inspired these medtech leaders

Alon Ironi

CEO and co-founder of Theranica

Ironi made a “significant career shift from electrical engineer to medical device innovator and created the first and only non-drug migraine treatment for adolescents – a decision that was inspired by his daughter’s struggles with the condition,” Theranica said in a statement shared with Medical Design & Outsourcing.

“His daughter, Sivan, had her first migraine at 14, leading to a frustrating journey of one ineffective treatment after another. During his daughter’s treatment journey, Alon discovered that despite the millions of adolescents who suffer from the disease, few treatments were created let alone tested or even approved for adolescents. Plus, the majority of both prescription and over-the-counter medications came with serious side effects.”

“Determined to find a treatment for this unmet need, Ironi applied his expertise in electronic circuits to the neurological system. With a full team of trusted colleagues, they developed the Nerivio remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) wearable, a drug-free device that stimulates the upper arm with a waveform designed to activate the brain’s natural pain management system. This breakthrough technology is FDA-cleared for preventive and acute treatment in patients ages 12+.”

“Sivan played a prominent role in testing and refining the device, transitioning from inspiration to collaborator. Their partnership in developing the REN wearable not only strengthened their father-daughter bond but also transformed many lives, providing a much-needed alternative for migraine care. This story is a testament to the fact that necessity really is the father of invention.”

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