Verapamil and migraine prophylaxis: mechanisms and efficacy

Am J Med. 1991 May 17;90(5A):48S-53S. doi: 10.1016/0002-9343(91)90486-h.

Abstract

Calcium channel blockers have demonstrated efficacy in investigative use for prophylaxis of migraine and cluster headaches. In particular, verapamil, with its low side-effect profile, appears to be a promising alternative to the currently available agents for prophylactic treatment of chronic recurring headaches. Although its exact mechanisms of action in this application are unknown, verapamil exerts a vasodilatory effect on cerebral arteries and interacts with serotonergic systems involved in migraine pathogenesis. A review of studies from the past decade indicates that verapamil may be as effective as traditional therapies as prophylaxis for the major types of chronic recurring headache.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chronic Disease
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Cluster Headache / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Migraine Disorders / etiology
  • Migraine Disorders / physiopathology
  • Recurrence
  • Verapamil / pharmacology
  • Verapamil / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Verapamil