Improving migraine headache characteristics with high dose of thiamine: A randomized double-blind controlled trial

Background: Migraine, a prevalent neurological condition, is recognized as the sixth leading cause of global disability. The proposed mechanism involves a combination of diminished energy reserves and heightened sensory stimulation activating the trigeminovascular system. Thiamine, essential for energy generation in various tissues including the nervous system, is hypothesized to be involved. This study aims to examine the effects of administering a high dose of thiamine to women with episodic migraine. Methods: A randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted involving 40 women with episodic migraine. Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving 990 milligrams of thiamine three times daily, and the other receiving 990 milligrams of maltodextrin over 12 weeks. Headache frequency, duration, severity, and disability were evaluated through questionnaires. Initial and final measurements of serum calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were taken. Results: Thiamine supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) scores, migraine frequency, duration, and intensity compared to the placebo group. However, both groups experienced a decline in serum CGRP levels, with no significant difference between them. Conclusion: This study suggests that high-dose thiamine supplementation may offer a beneficial adjunctive treatment for episodic migraine. Further investigations with prolonged intervention periods are necessary to validate these findings.