Applied Evidence

Migraine: Expanding our Tx arsenal

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References

Further testing needed? Neuroimaging should be considered only in patients with an abnormal neurologic exam, atypical headache features, or certain risk factors, such as an immune deficiency. There is no role for electroencephalography or other diagnostic testing in migraine.16

Take a multipronged approach to treatment

As with other complex, chronic conditions, the treatment of migraine should take a multifaceted approach, including management of acute symptoms as well as prevention of future headaches. In 2015, the American Headache Society published a systematic review that specified particular treatment goals for migraine sufferers. 17 These goals include:

  • headache reduction
  • headache relief
  • decreased disability from headache
  • elimination of nausea and vomiting
  • elimination of photophobia and phonophobia.

Our review, which follows, of therapeutic options focuses on the management of migraine in adults. Approaches in special populations (older adults, pregnant women, and children) are discussed afterward.

Pharmacotherapy for acute migraine

Acute migraine should be treated with an abortive medication at the onset of headache. The immediate goal is to relieve pain within 2 hours and prevent its recurrence within the subsequent 48 hours (TABLE 412,18-20).

Migraine therapy: Options a  and promising approaches

Electroencephalography and other diagnostic testing have no role in the workup of migraine.

In the general population, mild, infrequent migraines can be managed with acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).21

Migraine therapy: Options a  and promising approaches

Continue to: For moderate-to-severe migraine...

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