When it comes to migraines, those affected want relief as quickly and effectively as possible. According to a new study, some medications are particularly suitable for this because they work much more effectively than normal painkillers.
In a recent study, experts at the Kanagawa University of Human Services (KUHS) examined how 25 medications from seven different classes affect the treatment of migraine attacks. The results can be read in the English-language journal “Neurology”.
Many suffer from migraines
Migraine is a brain disease and is one of the most common headache disorders in Central Europe. According to the German Migraine and Headache Society (DMKG), around ten to 15 percent of people living in Central Europe are affected by migraines.
The disease most commonly occurs between the ages of 20 and 30 and, in general, adult women are three times more likely to suffer from migraines than adult men.
Migraines are characterized by recurring headache attacks that are so intense that they have a significant impact on everyday life. The headaches are often accompanied by other symptoms, which, according to the experts at DMKG, include nausea and vomiting and hypersensitivity to light, noise and smell.
25 drugs examined
In order to find out which medications are particularly helpful in treating migraines, the researchers now carried out a retrospective analysis of 10,842,795 migraine attacks. The treatment effectiveness of 25 acute medications from seven different classes was analyzed.
Three classes of medications were found to be most effective against migraine attacks. According to the team, these were triptans, ergotics and antiemetics. The experts name eletriptan, zolmitriptan and sumatriptan as the most effective individual medications.
The results of the study confirm that triptans, ergotics and antiemetics are the most effective drug classes, which is consistent with the recommendations of the treatment guidelines and offers generalizable findings to complement clinical practice, the researchers explain.
Counteract migraines without medication
But it’s not just medication that can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. According to the DMKG, regular endurance sports and muscle relaxation procedures have also been proven to have a beneficial effect on migraines.
In addition, changes in personal behavior can reduce triggers for migraine attacks. The experts at DMKG recommend avoiding sleep deprivation, lack of fluid intake and skipping meals. It is also advisable to reduce or prevent stress in order to prevent migraine attacks. (as)