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Recurrent classic migraine attacks following transdermal scopolamine intoxication
C R Gordon1, D Mankuta, A Shupak
1Motion Sickness and Human Performance Laboratory, Israeli Naval Hyperbaric Institute, Haifa.
Headache
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Transdermal scopolamine (TS) treatment for sea sickness led to intoxication and new-onset classic migraine in a naval crew member. This case suggests a potential link between TS and migraine development.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Transdermal scopolamine (TS) is commonly used for motion sickness.
- Continuous use of TS can lead to intoxication.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old male naval crew member on continuous TS treatment developed intoxication.
- Following intoxication, he experienced recurrent classic migraine attacks, which were new-onset.
Findings:
- The migraine attacks presented with prodrome, aura (visual disturbances, sensory changes), and severe unilateral headache with associated symptoms.
- The patient continued to experience migraines every 10-14 days without identifiable triggers after one year of follow-up.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential association between transdermal scopolamine intoxication and the development of classic migraine.
- Neurotransmitter imbalance or cardiovascular alterations may be implicated in this adverse effect.
- Further research is needed to confirm the causal relationship and underlying mechanisms.