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3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache

3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache

Published on: June 2, 2014

[Antidepressants in migraine prophylaxis].

Eiichiro Nagata¹

¹Department of Neurology, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimo-Kasuya, Isehara, Kanagawa 259-1193, Japan.

Brain and Nerve = Shinkei Kenkyu No Shinpo

|November 4, 2009

Summary

Amitriptyline is a highly effective antidepressant for migraine prevention, recommended by specialists and guidelines. Low doses minimize side effects like drowsiness, making it a practical choice for managing frequent migraine attacks.

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Area of Science:

Neurology
Pharmacology

Context:

Prophylactic treatment for migraine is initiated based on attack frequency and functional disability.
Antidepressants are established as effective agents for migraine prophylaxis.
Amitriptyline is a commonly prescribed antidepressant by headache specialists for migraine prevention.

Purpose:

To review the efficacy and application of amitriptyline in prophylactic migraine treatment.
To highlight its classification in evidence-based guidelines and utility in comorbid depression.
To discuss common side effects and strategies for mitigation.

Summary:

Amitriptyline demonstrates significant benefits in reducing migraine attack frequency, supported by clinical trials.
It is classified as a Group 1 drug by the Japanese Headache Society and American Neurological Association.
The drug is particularly useful for patients with comorbid depression, though side effects like sleepiness and dry mouth can occur.
Low-dose administration of amitriptyline can effectively reduce the incidence of side effects, improving patient tolerability.

Impact:

Provides evidence-based support for amitriptyline as a first-line prophylactic migraine treatment.
Offers guidance on managing side effects through dose adjustment.
Underscores the importance of considering comorbid conditions like depression in treatment selection.