Botox treatment for migraine: how does it work, and how effective is it?

November 10, 2017

=== Jordan J. Ghassemian & Evan Cole Lewis, MD ===


When we hear about Botox, we generally think of getting rid of wrinkles. However, it turns out Onabotulinum Toxin A – a.k.a. Botox – serves a practical use in the treatment of migraines.

Is Botox right for you? Read on to find out more!

The 1st and 2nd PREEMPT (Phase III REsearch Evaluating Migraine Prophylaxis Therapy) trials showed that Botox is an effective, safe and well-tolerated way to prevent chronic migraine in adults. Results from these trials indicate Botox is the most effective way to treat chronic migraines.

But, how exactly does Botox work?

The true nature of how this treatment works is still under study; however, recent studies suggest that botulinum toxin inhibits certain pain pathways in thought to be involved in the headache phase of a migraine attack.

Can Botox be used to treat other types of headaches aside from Chronic Migraine?

Studies suggest that Botox is not effective for other types of headaches such as, tension-type, episodic migraines, and other chronic headaches. As of today, only patients with chronic migraine are able to receive these Botox injections, and more research on the topic will hopefully shed some light on the practical use and effectiveness of this treatment.

For more information on Botox treatment for chronic migraine, feel free to contact NCT (www.neuerologycentretoronto.com) and speak with our Botox nurse.