Botox Injections For Migraines

By Haddis Hagos, MD

The international headache society defines episodic migraines as being unilateral, pulsing discomfort of moderate to severe intensity, which is aggravated by physical activity.

Migraine is only one form of headaches and is very common. Over three million U.S. cases per year occur.

The symptoms include moderate to severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to sound and light. It is much more common in women then men. The ratio is three females to one male.

The specific causes of migraines is unknown but there may be fluctuations in certain neurotransmitter chemicals that send messages between brain cells.

There are many kinds of headache medications. Triptans are a popular means of preventing or absorbing migraines. Dihydroegotamine narcotics and anti-nausea medications are used. Dietary prevention is also important like avoiding food triggers. Wine, chocolate and caffeine should be avoided.

Botox is an injectable form of onabotulinum toxin. It is used for preventing migraines. It is approved only for adults with migraines that occur in 15 days or more per month for three months, which has the features of migraine headache on at least eight days per month.

Botox works by blocking the release of certain nerves and muscles. Even though it is not completely clear how botox works, a potential mechanism is thought to be, botox blocks nerves that send signals to the brain and relaxes muscles so that they are less sensitive to pain.

Following botox injections, patients have varying degrees of headache relief. Some feel better while others report complete pain relief quickly, usually within 24 hours. Botox treatment is generally safe and well tolerated by a majority of patients.

Some complications like headaches, facial loss of movement, eye drooping, neck pain, stiffness, pain at injection site and high blood pressure may occur.

Botox is not appropriate for people allergic to the medication.