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Updated: Jun 12, 2026

3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
Intravenous sodium valproate aborts migraine headaches rapidly
R Shahien1, S A Saleh, A Bowirrat
1Department of Neurology, Ziv Medical Center, Safed, Israel. shahien.r@ziv.health.gov.il
Intravenous sodium valproate (iVPA) offers rapid and safe relief for severe migraine headaches in a preliminary study. Further randomized trials are needed to confirm these promising findings for migraine management.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Migraine is a debilitating neurological condition.
- Effective acute treatments for severe migraine attacks are crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous sodium valproate for severe migraine.
- To assess pain relief and symptom improvement in migraine patients.
Main Methods:
- A preliminary prospective open-label study.
- 36 hospitalized patients with acute migraine received intravenous sodium valproate.
- Pain severity assessed using a 10-point visual analog scale.
Main Results:
- 75% of patients experienced significant pain reduction within 60 minutes.
- Headache severity decreased significantly (P<0.0001).
- No serious adverse events were reported, indicating a favorable safety profile.
Conclusions:
- Intravenous sodium valproate (iVPA) appears to be a safe and effective treatment for intractable migraine attacks.
- The rapid onset of action suggests iVPA as a potential therapeutic option.
- Randomized, double-blinded, controlled studies are recommended for further validation.
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