brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Migraines
Prevention of Migraine
When treatment does not prevent people from having frequent or incapacitating migraines, taking medications every day to prevent migraine attacks can help (see table Some Drugs Used to Treat Migraines ). Taking preventive medications may help people take pain relievers or other migraine medications less often and thus help avoid The choice of a preventive medication is based on the side effects of the medication and on other disorders present, as in the following examples: Adrenergic blockers , such as The antiseizure medicationtopiramatemay be given to people who are overweight because it can promote weight loss. The antiseizure medication divalproex can help stabilize mood and may be useful if migraines make functioning difficult. Amitriptylinemay be given to people with depression or insomnia. OnabotulinumtoxinA(used to block nerve activity) or certain other medications (such as divalproex and monoclonal antibodies) may be used when other medications are ineffective. Monoclonal antibodies (such aserenumab,fremanezumab, orgalcanezumab) if other medications are ineffective. Monoclonal antibodies, given by injection, block the action of a substance that can trigger migraines. Other medications that can be used to prevent migraines include calcium channel blockers. Devices that stimulate certain nerves, held to certain parts of the body, can also help prevent migraine attacks. One such device, held to the forehead, can reduce the frequency of migraines. Another device, held to the back of the skull, can relieve migraines as they start and help prevent them. These devices have no significant side effects. 