Botox and Migraines

Does botox help with migraines?

We all know about Botox’s anti aging benefits but did you know that it’s often used to treat patients who get severe and frequent migraines. Let us answer some of the common questions about Botox and migraines you may have…

Has Botox been proven to be effective for the prevention of migraines?

Health Canada has approved the use of Botox for the treatment of chronic migraine in 2011. The clinical trials proved its efficacy and safety for the treatment of chronic migraine. Botox should be offered as a treatment to people who live with chronic migraine.

Who had the idea of trying Botox to treat migraine?

The use of Botox for migraine came from random observations of improvement of migraine in women receiving Botox for cosmetic purposes in the 80’s. Chronic migraine is common in women in their 40-50s. The benefit was reported to the company, and clinical trials were designed to see if Botox could really treat migraine.

Where do they inject Botox for migraines?

Botox is injected into 7 specific muscle areas around your head and neck to help prevent migraine headaches before they start. Areas include the forehead, bridge of the nose, the temples, the neck, the back of the head, and just above the shoulder blades in your upper back

What can you expect the results to be of getting botox for migraines?

• • The attacks are less severe
  • The attacks are easier to control with acute treatments
  • The baseline headache or baseline neck pain are less intense
  • The tolerance to triggers is higher
  • The person functions better overall

Could Botox work if other preventives did not work for me?

Yes. Botox has a different mechanism of action than oral preventives. Studies have demonstrated a benefit in patients who had tried other preventives. In real life, Botox is covered only after previous trials, and improvements are observed.

Learn more about Botox or contact us to book a complimentary consultation if you would like to get Botox in Vancouver.