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Triptans in orgasmic headache
A Frese1, A Gantenbein, M Marziniak
1Department of Neurology, University of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Strasse 33, 48129 Münster, Germany. fresea@uni-muenster.de
Cephalalgia : an International Journal of Headache
|November 23, 2006
Summary
Triptans may effectively treat orgasmic headaches, a sudden severe headache during orgasm. This treatment shows promise for both acute attacks and short-term prevention when other options fail.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Orgasmic headache, classified as headache associated with sexual activity type 2, is characterized by sudden, severe head pain during orgasm.
- Current treatment options for orgasmic headaches are limited, necessitating exploration of alternative therapeutic strategies.
Observation:
- This study describes experiences with triptan therapy in patients suffering from orgasmic headaches.
- Triptans were administered both for acute treatment of severe, prolonged headaches and as a short-term prophylactic measure.
Findings:
- A positive response to acute triptan therapy was observed in two out of four patients experiencing headaches lasting longer than two hours.
- Two out of three patients utilizing triptans for short-term prophylaxis reported consistent effectiveness on multiple occasions.
Implications:
- Triptans represent a potential treatment option for shortening orgasmic headache attacks, particularly after excluding serious conditions like subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- For individuals who can anticipate sexual activity, short-term oral triptan prophylaxis 30 minutes prior may be a viable therapeutic alternative for those unresponsive or intolerant to indomethacin.
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