ACE and ARB Agents in the Prophylactic Therapy of Migraine-How Effective Are They?

Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are antihypertensive agents that can be considered for migraine preventative therapy. Although the exact mechanisms by which ACE inhibitors and ARBs may work for migraine prophylaxis are unknown, there are several plausible hypotheses as to why modulating the activity of the renin angiotensin system could result in migraine prevention. Clinical trials of ACE inhibitors and ARBs provide evidence that they are effective and generally well tolerated when used for migraine prophylaxis. Based upon biologic plausibility, the quality of evidence for efficacy from clinical trials, and recommendations in published guidelines, we consider ACE inhibitors and ARBs as second- or third-line options for migraine prophylaxis.