Botox for Migraines
Reducing the severity and the number of headaches might be possible
Botox injections are a relatively new treatment for migraine headaches and offer hope for sufferers.
Botox is a relatively new treatment for migraine headaches. A study (Poison Your Migraine? Botox Injections for Use in Migraine Prevention) has shown it to be effective in preventing the number and severity of migraine headaches. It has not been accepted yet by the FDA (Federal Food and Drug Administration) as an approved treatment and therefore, some insurance companies will not pay for these treatments.
What is Botox?
Botox (botulinum toxin) is a neurotoxin. It is best known as the bacterium that causes botulism, a sometimes fatal food poisoning. Scientists have discovered that a certain strain of botulinum can safely be used when injected directly into the muscle, therefore not being absorbed by the bloodstream. In addition, when using injections of Botox, a much smaller amount of the bacteria is injected than would cause physical illness.
Why Does It Work?
Botox causes a weakening or a paralysis of the muscles it is injected into. Previously, migraine headaches were thought to be caused by swollen blood vessels in the head; however, the research involving Botox may indicate muscle tension as a major cause of migraines. Many people with migraines have neck and shoulder pain, due to muscle tension. Lessening this may lessen the chances of having a headache. In addition, there is some indication that Botox injections may decrease the body’s response to pain.
Side Effects
Because the medication is injected directly into the muscle, there are few side effects. There may be some pain at the site of the injection for one to two days. Some people may experience drooping eyelids for a few days. This is normally not apparent if it is injected properly.
Who Might Benefit?
Botox has been found in some studies to reduce the number and severity of migraine headaches, however, since it is not covered by all insurance companies, patients will need to weigh the cost of the treatment to determine if it is an option. The injection seems to last between 10 and 13 weeks and it is not recommended that anyone receive injections more frequently than every 3 weeks.
According to an article that appeared in the Boston Globe, “people with imploding headaches, which feel like the head is being crushed or those who describe their pain as eye-popping, may respond better than those people with exploding headaches.”
You Might Also Be Interested in:
Migraine Headaches: New ways to treat this painful condition
Sources:
Foreman, Judy (2007,April 27). Do Botox Injections Help With Migraines?. Boston Globe.
(2003,Dec 3). Poison Your Migraine? Botox Injections for Use in Migraine Prevention. About.com
Klapper, MD, Jack Botox & Migraine. Headache-Help.org
