June 13, 2000 The Associated Press
Headache sufferers wondering if a migraine is to blame, and if so what to do, have some new resources.
Migraine specialists recently devised the first guidelines for primary care physicians to use in picking a treatment, guidelines that explain what scientific evidence is behind each medication.
For example, drugs used to prevent migraines include anti-epilepsy drugs that work by inhibiting abnormal firing of brain cells linked to migraines, as well as heart-related medications like verapamil and certain antidepressants. Each has pros and cons.
Likewise, the guidelines discuss who is the best candidate for the most powerful prescription migraine treatments - four drugs called "triptans" - or other prescription and over-the-counter pain relievers.
Although the guidelines are largely written in medical jargon, patients can read them on the Internet at http://www.aan.com.
For more consumer-friendly information, the National Headache Foundation and U.S. Headache Consortium offer brochures and Web sites. Check http://www.headaches.org or http://www.achenet.org, or call 1-888-NHF-5552.
Copyright 2000 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
