Migraines: Prophylaxis vs Treatment

There is a place for prophylaxis when dealing with migraine patients whose symptoms are affecting their quality of life. This was suggested by a recent systemic review from Canada, which looked at a series of meta-analyses and individual studies examining differing medications.

The range of prophylactic agents considered in the study included antiepileptics, antidepressants, antihypertensives, vitamins, minerals and herbal agents. The most effective agents were the antidepressant amitriptyline and antiepileptic topiramate. The research however suggested for top results, the different treatments should be combined. It does however remain important, and indeed the most effective strategy to avoiding trigger factors such as; caffeine withdrawal, alcohol, sunlight, menstruation, and changes in barometric pressure.

More Info:
http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/340/feb19_2/c1013
www.cmaj.ca/cgi/content/citation/cmaj.081657v1