THE SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE BEHIND BOTOX FOR CHRONIC MIGRAINE PREVENTION

So many suffering from chronic migraines are finding no relief for their pain.
Trigger avoidance and pharmacological or drug treatments are no help.
But, there is a more non-traditional therapy to consider.
It’s Botox therapy, which has been approved by the FDA for the prevention of chronic migraines.

What Is Botox?

OnabotulinumtoxinA, or botulinum toxin type A, is commonly known by the trade name Botox. It is a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum and works by blocking nerve connections resulting in decreasing muscle activity.

Botox injection is a quick procedure—typically no longer than 15 minutes.

The only thing to worry about during the procedure is small burning sensation and discomfort that doesn’t last long at all and is very tolerable.

Does Botox Work?

Let’s let science do the talking.

In one study by Headache of nearly 1,300 patients with diagnosis of chronic migraines, the PREEMPT program (56-week trial) investigated the use of botulinum toxin type A as a migraine preventative treatment.

The participants were randomized to receive either Botox injections or a placebo injection every 12 weeks for 5 cycles—31 injections in total—none of whom knew which injection they received.

The results were clear. Those who received OnabotulinumtoxinA were more likely to have a reduction in the number of headaches and were more likely to report less “headache hours” on the days they suffered from migraines.

A similar study in JAMA also suggested small migraine-Botox benefit.

Injections of OnabotulinumtoxinA also resulted in increased work productivity.

What Are the Drawbacks of Botox?

Like any medical procedure, there are bound to be a few side effects.

In the JAMA study, these side effects (while rare) were seen:

• Muscle weakness
• Skin tightness
• Neck stiffness
• Neck pain

Although Botox can be pricey, insurance companies will sometimes cover Botox therapy with documentation of failed preventative migraine therapies.

The Bottom Line

Botox would definitely appear to be useful in preventing chronic migraines. It can also be used along other migraine medications.

Dr. Eliot Battle

CEO & Founder at Cultura Dermatology & Plastic Surgery

Dr. Eliot Battle, CEO of Cultura Dermatology, is a global leader in cosmetic dermatology and laser innovation. His Harvard research pioneered “color-blind” lasers, making treatments safe for all skin tones. A sought-after expert featured in TIME, Oprah, and The New York Times, he continues to advance inclusive, cutting-edge dermatological care.