Combination monoamine oxidase inhibitor and beta-blocker treatment of migraine, with anxiety and depression.

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study comparing the effectiveness of a beta-adrenergic blocking agent, atenolol, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAO-I), phenelzine, and the combination in treatment of 61 adults with migraine headache. The goals of the study are (1) to investigate the safety of concomitant treatment of migraine with beta-blockers and phenelzine, (2) to assess whether orthostatic hypertension and other side effects would be relieved, and (3) to compare the results of this open trial of phenelzine to those of a previous study using similar methods. Phenelzine was associated with a large decrease in the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Anxiety and depression were also reduced by phenelzine both alone, and in combination with a beta-blocker. The results show that the combination of MAO-I's and beta-blockers can be administered safely, and can lead to the reduction in the side effects with either drug alone.

• Authors: K R Merikangas, J R Merikangas
• Journal: Biological psychiatry (Biol Psychiatry) Vol. 38 Issue 9 Pg. 603-10 (Nov 01 1995) ISSN: 0006-3223 [Print] United States
• PMID: 8573662 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Adrenergic beta-Antagonists
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
• Atenolol
• Phenelzine

Topics

• Adrenergic beta-Antagonists (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Adult
• Anxiety (complications, diagnosis, drug therapy)
• Atenolol (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Blood Pressure (drug effects)
• Depressive Disorder (complications, diagnosis, drug therapy)
• Disability Evaluation
• Drug Administration Schedule
• Drug Therapy, Combination
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Migraine Disorders (complications, diagnosis, drug therapy)
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Phenelzine (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Treatment Outcome