Managing intractable migraine with naratriptan.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Intractable migraine presents a significant treatment challenge to both patient and physician. Most attacks are treatable or self-limiting, but occasionally they may continue for extended periods regardless of treatment.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the efficacy of naratriptan 2.5 mg twice daily for the treatment of intractable migraine.

METHODS:

We reviewed 24 patients treated with naratriptan twice daily for an intractable migraine attack. Patients were permitted to take prophylactic medication if such treatment had been effective in the past.

RESULTS:

Nineteen patients (79%) improved. Twelve patients showed excellent response with cessation of pain and associated symptoms, 7 patients partially responded with lessening of pain and cessation of associated symptoms, and 5 patients were nonresponsive.

CONCLUSION:

Short-term daily administration of naratriptan may be effective in terminating status migrainosus.

• Authors: R Michael Gallagher, Loretta Mueller
• Journal: Headache (Headache) Vol. 43 Issue 9 Pg. 991-3 (Oct 2003) ISSN: 0017-8748 [Print] United States
• PMID: 14511276 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Indoles
• Piperidines
• Serotonin Receptor Agonists
• Tryptamines
• naratriptan

Topics

• Adult
• Female
• Humans
• Indoles (therapeutic use)
• Middle Aged
• Migraine without Aura (drug therapy)
• Piperidines (therapeutic use)
• Serotonin Receptor Agonists (therapeutic use)
• Treatment Outcome
• Tryptamines