Migraines: Not Your Average Headache

Authors

Lauren McDonough PA-C, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Internal Medicine

Advisor

Thomas Colletti

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the topic of migraines and the new treatment methods available.

Method: A literature review was conducted to examine current research on migraines and the new treatment methods that are proving successful.

Results: Migraines are still a prevalent and debilitating disorder, but new data suggests that targeting calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) is successfully shifting abortive and preventative treatment of migraines.

Conclusion: Triptans have been used as the mainstay of abortive therapy for migraines for decades, however they are not effective for everyone, have many side effects making them intolerable to some, and are contraindicated for those with cardiovascular risk factors. CGRP targeted therapy has begun to shift treatment for those unable to use triptans with great success. Studies now show that this new targeted therapy is useful for both abortive and preventive treatment.

KEY POINTS

1. To educate the target audience about migraine pathophysiology.
2. To educate the target audience about migraine signs and symptoms and how this leads to a diagnosis.
3. To educate the audience about the long-existing, as well as new treatment options for abortive and preventive care.
4. To improve the management of migraines and the quality of life for patients.

Recommended Citation

McDonough L. Migraines: Not Your Average Headache. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2022; 4(3).