migraine botox
Migraine Botox
Most people only know botox as a treatment for facial wrinkles but recently, there has been a lot of press regarding botox as an alternative treatment for migraines. What is botox? Boxtox is a diluted and chemically refined substance derived from botulinum toxin A – a bacteria that many fear for its paralyzing effects when ingested. Botox is then injected into the muscles of the face that need relaxing – creating a smoother, less wrinkled appearance.
Can Botox Help Migraines?
Like many medication that are now prescribed for migraines (antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, etc) doctors noticed that patients suffering from migraines experienced a reduction in migraine attacks after botox treatments for wrinkles. This was not an official study by any means but simply observation of patients after treatment. Once the trend was noticed, word quickly spread among migraine sufferers.
Unfortunately, as there has not been a formal study of botox’s migraine preventative capabilities, it is still unknown why botox reduces migraines and if it will work for everyone. For now, botox as a migraine treatment is strictly an “off-label” use for medication – meaning, botox is not FDA approved for migraine treatment.
How Does Botox Treat Migraines?
If you are interested in trying botox treatment with the permission of your doctor – this is how many migraine sufferers are receiving treatment:
Botox is injected into one’s forehead, eye area, sides of the head, and back of the head.
Treatments must reoccur as botox will wear off after four to six months (this is no different than typical botox treatment to keep wrinkles at bay.)
Are There Side Effects to Treating Migraines With Botox?
Essentially, the potential side effects for treating migraines with botox are the same as treating wrinkles with botox – there is always some risk that a person will experience either an allergic reaction or certain symptom of botulism such as trouble moving normally, visual disturbances, trouble breathing, speaking, or swallowing. Less severe side effects include discomfort or irritation at injection sites, and mild reactions like dry mouth/eyes, feeling tired, and headaches.
