The violent pain of migraines, described more than 2,000 years ago by the Greek physician Hippocrates, can be prevented in 40 percent of patients.
Still, only 13 percent of patients use preventative drugs, according to research by the Mayo Clinic.
The success of preventative drugs can be a matter of trial and error, taking up to four weeks to decrease the frequency and severity of migraines.
Here are the current therapies:
* Antiseizure drugs – Reduce the frequency of migraines, but are shown to have side effects of weakened bones, tingling in arms and legs, mood problems, among others.
Antidepressants – Elavil is usually prescribed for people under 65 since it puts the user at risk for irregular heart rhythm. It has been shown to be effective at migraine prevention plus insomnia and depression.
Blood pressure medications – Beta blockers have the best track record for preventing migraines. ACE inhibitors are also used.
Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) – Two studies show the worth of Botox as effective in reducing migraine frequency. By injection.
