Understanding the long-term risks of migraine preventive treatments is important for those managing migraine. While 80% of people with chronic migraine discontinue their preventive medications within the first year due to ineffectiveness or side effects, newer options like Botox, CGRP monoclonal antibodies, and gepants are showing promise with fewer side effects, leading to improved patient outcomes.
Despite these advancements, it’s important to consider the potential long-term effects and risks of preventive medications. This article provides a detailed overview of current research on the long-term impacts of various migraine preventives, guiding you in making informed decisions with your healthcare provider. Given that comprehensive long-term data is often limited, with many studies focusing only on short-term outcomes, your healthcare provider should be your primary resource for navigating these discussions. For more information on short-term side effects, please refer to our page on migraine preventives: doses, side effects, and contraindications.
Long-Term Effects of Migraine Preventives Based on Current Research
Now I’m concerned! What should I do?
The goal of this article is to inform you, not scare you. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider and weigh the benefits against potential risks. Making informed decisions about migraine preventives is important for enhancing quality of life while managing possible consequences.
References
- VanderPluym J, Evans RW, Starling AJ. Long-Term Use and Safety of Migraine Preventive Medications. Headache. 2016;56(8):1335-1343.
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