The journal of headache and pain
-
Precision medicine may offer new strategies to treat migraine, and access to existing large cohorts may be a key resource to increase statistical power. Treatment response data is not routinely collected for large cohorts; however, such information could be extracted from pharmacy databases. Using a clinical migraine sample with treatment effect data, we assessed whether treatment response can be predicted based on the number of drug purchases. ⋯ Pharmacy databases are a valid source for identification of treatment response. Specifically for migraine drugs, we conclude that ten purchases of triptans or four purchases of prophylactic drugs are sufficient to predict a positive treatment response. Precision medicine may be accelerated with the use of pharmacy databases.
-
To review the existing literature on histamine and migraine with a focus on the molecule, its receptors, its use in inducing migraine, and antihistamines in the treatment of migraine. ⋯ There is insufficient support for first generation antihistamines (both H1 and H2) as preventive migraine medications and sedation and weight gain are unacceptable side effects. Non-sedating H1 antihistamines need to be appropriately tested. Central H3 receptors seem to have a role in migraine that merit further investigation. The histaminergic system may be a goal for novel migraine drugs.
-
To investigate the whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity in patients with chronic migraine (CM) using a data-driven method. ⋯ CM patients have a stronger connectivity in the pain matrix than do EM patients. Functional alteration of the pain network might play a role in migraine chronification.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Development of an education and self-management intervention for chronic headache - CHESS trial (Chronic Headache Education and Self-management Study).
Self-management interventions are well recognised and widely used in chronic conditions. Their application to chronic headaches has been limited and generally of low quality. We describe here our process for developing an evidence based, and theory driven, education and self-management intervention for those living with chronic headache. ⋯ Our pilot work indicates that our intervention is feasible to deliver, and with the relevant changes would be acceptable for use with this population. Our randomised control trial is ongoing. We anticipate publishing final results in 2021.
-
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a neuropeptide with a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of migraine. Blockade of CGRP is a new therapeutic target for patients with migraine. CGRP and its receptors are distributed not only in the central and peripheral nervous system but also in the cardiovascular system, both in blood vessels and in the heart. ⋯ In physiological conditions, CGRP has important vasodilating effects and is thought to protect organs from ischemia. Despite the aforementioned cardiovascular implication, preventive treatment with CGRP antibodies has shown no relevant cardiovascular side effects. Results from long-term trials and from real life are now needed.