Drugs for migraine
Article Abstract:
A number of drugs may be used either to prevent or treat migraine headaches. The most effective drugs for preventing migraines appear to be beta-adrenergic blocking agents (beta-blockers). The Food and Drug Administration has approved two beta-blockers, propranolol and timolol, for the prevention of migraines. The recommended preventive dose of timolol is 20 milligrams (mg) per day and the recommended dose of propranolol is 80 to 240 mg per day. Some antidepressants may also be effective in preventing migraines. Dihydroergotamine and sumatriptan appear to be the most effective drugs for treating migraines. Sumatriptan is only available as an injection in the U.S., but is available as a nasal spray and an oral formulation in other countries. Patients with any risk factors for cardiovascular disease should not use sumatriptan. Dihydroergotamine is also only available as an injectable drug. However, it will be available as a nasal spray in the future. Side effects of dihydroergotamine include diarrhea and muscle cramps.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1995
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New "triptans" and other drugs for migraine
Article Abstract:
The FDA has approved three anti-migraine drugs belonging to the group known as the triptans. Sumatriptan was the first and is marketed under the trade name Imitrex. The three new drugs are zolmitriptan (Zomig), naratriptan (Amerge), and rizatriptan (Maxalt). Analgesics such as aspirin and acetaminophen may also be used for migraine. Ergot alkaloids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be useful. Beta blockers are most often used to prevent a migraine attack. Depakote, tricyclic antidepressants, and calcium channel blockers may be helpful.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1998
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Zolmitriptan for migraine
Article Abstract:
Zolmitriptan is an oral medication for migraine headaches. The drug may work by constricting blood vessels in the head and suppressing the release of inflammatory substances. In clinical research, substantial numbers of patients reported migraine headache relief within one to four hours after taking the drug. The drug may also relieve other symptoms of migraine, such as light sensitivity and nausea. Zolmitriptan may be useful for patients with migraine who do not get relief from the similar drug, sumatriptan.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1998
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