Abstract | OBJECTIVE: BACKGROUND: METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of all patients with an order for mexiletine. For each patient, we determined diagnosis, presence of medication overuse on initial evaluation, pain scores, and if the patient received intravenous lidocaine before starting the medication. We then contacted patients by phone to confirm their dose, to review side effects and current pain scores, and to obtain a global impression of effectiveness. RESULTS: We identified 9 patients with a chronic daily headache, including chronic migraine or new daily persistent headache, with significant clinical improvement while using mexiletine as a headache preventative. Each patient had failed to respond to multiple preventative and acute treatments. Seven of the 9 rated mexiletine "much more effective" and 2 "more effective" than previous preventative headache medications. The daily dose ranged from 600 mg/day to 1500 mg/day. Side effects were common and occurred in 7 patients. The majority of patients with an order for mexiletine did not respond to treatment or had intolerable side effects. DISCUSSION:
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Authors | Michael J Marmura, Frank C Passero Jr, William B Young |
Journal | Headache
(Headache)
2008 Nov-Dec
Vol. 48
Issue 10
Pg. 1506-10
ISSN: 1526-4610 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 18793209
(Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
- Analgesics
- Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
- Anticonvulsants
- Mexiletine
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Topics |
- Adult
- Analgesics
(administration & dosage, adverse effects)
- Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
(administration & dosage, adverse effects)
- Anticonvulsants
(administration & dosage, adverse effects)
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drug Administration Schedule
- Drug Resistance
(drug effects)
- Female
- Headache Disorders
(drug therapy)
- Headache Disorders, Secondary
(drug therapy)
- Humans
- Male
- Mexiletine
(administration & dosage, adverse effects)
- Middle Aged
- Retrospective Studies
- Treatment Outcome
- Young Adult
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