Botox as a Migraine Preventative

Using Botox to ease the effects of migraine is gaining acceptance.

A number of studies have been carried out to asses the effectiveness of Botox in reducing the symptoms of migraine and the results look very encouraging.

One such study was carried out Dr. Eross of The Headache Institute. His study of 74 patients demonstrated that 62% of these patients experienced over a 50% improvement in migraine symptoms. On average, patients experienced a 35% decrease in the number of headache days and a 22% decrease in their pain intensity over a three--month period.

Todd Troost from the Wake Forest University has treated patients with Botox. These patients suffered from migraine or chronic daily headaches. Most of the patients had previously tried other migraine preventatives, with little effect. The trial consisted of patients received one to four Botox treatments spaced at three--month intervals. Out of the patients who received four treatments, 92% reported an improvement; 84% of the patients reported improvement if they received fewer treatments. These findings suggest that more than one treatment is recommended to achieve best possible relief.

A study by researchers at Saint Louis University School of Medicine also suggests that long--term migraine relief can be achieved with small doses of Botox. A large number of the 41 patients who experienced at least 2 migraines a week, reported fewer than before they began the study and the intensity ratings of any subsequent headaches where significantly lower.

The duration of relief that is achieved using Botox varies from patient to patient, but typically lasts about 10 to 13 weeks. Current available migraine preventatives come with a number of side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, mental changes and weight gain. Botox however does not have these side effects because it is injected directly into the muscle and not distributed into the blood stream. The only common side effect of Botox is mild pain during the injections and slight redness at the injection site, which is only temporary.

Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin type A as it's clinically known affects the nerves. When injected into a muscle in tiny amounts, it can cause temporary paralysation of that muscle. Amongst other things Botox is used cosmetically for the temporary improvement in the appearance of some facial wrinkles.

Botox is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the temporary treatment of moderate to severe frown lines in people aged 18--65.

At this time Botox does not have approval from the FDA to reduce the symptoms of migraine.

Very many people now take advantage of the Cosmetic and rejuvenation benefits that Botox has to offer, looking younger, feeling better about themselves, Migraine sufferers may have the added bonus of headache relief.

Article author Simon D from http://www.rejuvenateclinics.com, a Bournemouth based Botox clinic.