Effectiveness of high-dose riboflavin in migraine prophylaxis. A randomized controlled trial.

Abstract

A deficit of mitochondrial energy metabolism may play a role in migraine pathogenesis. We found in a previous open study that high-dose riboflavin was effective in migraine prophylaxis. We now compared riboflavin (400 mg) and placebo in 55 patients with migraine in a randomized trial of 3 months duration. Using an intention-to-treat analysis, riboflavin was superior to placebo in reducing attack frequency (p = 0.005) and headache days (p = 0.012). Regarding the latter, the proportion of patients who improved by at least 50%, i.e. "responders," was 15% for placebo and 59% for riboflavin (p = 0.002) and the number-needed-to-treat for effectiveness was 2.3. Three minor adverse events occurred, two in the riboflavin group (diarrhea and polyuria) and one in the placebo group (abdominal cramps). None was serious. Because of its high efficacy, excellent tolerability, and low cost, riboflavin is an interesting option for migraine prophylaxis and a candidate for a comparative trial with an established prophylactic drug.

• Authors: J Schoenen, J Jacquy, M Lenaerts
• Journal: Neurology (Neurology) Vol. 50 Issue 2 Pg. 466-70 (Feb 1998) ISSN: 0028-3878 [Print] United States
• PMID: 9484373 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Placebos
• Riboflavin

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Migraine Disorders (physiopathology, prevention & control)
• Placebos
• Riboflavin (therapeutic use)
• Severity of Illness Index
• Time Factors