How Botox Works for Migraines
Migraine attacks are common headaches associated with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sensitivity to sound, and face numbness.
While researchers are still unsure of the exact causes that trigger migraines, there seems to be a genetic component to this disease. In other words, having a family member with migraine headaches increases your risk of developing this condition.
Migraines have dozens of triggers that change from one person to another. Identifying these triggers is important to prevent severe forms.
Unfortunately, many treatments fail to address migraine headaches, which brings up the need for alternative approaches.
In this article, we will cover the potential role of Botox therapy in the treatment of migraine headaches.
Botox treatment
Botox treatment could prevent migraine headaches. This treatment involves injecting a drug made from a purified protein known as Clostridium botulinum. Injecting this chemical blocks the electrical signal transmission inside the nerves, which leads to temporary muscle paralysis.
While most people associate Botox with reducing wrinkles, researchers identified the potential use of this chemical in treating several medical conditions, including migraine headaches, eye twitches, and overactive bladder.
Treating chronic migraines with Botox includes 31 injections with 5 units per injection. Depending on your medical history and site of headache, your doctor may inject Botox in the following areas:
- The upper bridge above the nose
- Forehead
- Back of the head
- Temples
- Neck
- Upper back
Note that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only approves the use of Botox for the treatment of chronic migraines. Differently put, your headache needs to persist for at least 15 days a month before being eligible to receive this treatment.
How does Botox help with migraines
Note that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only approves the use of Botox for the treatment of chronic migraines. Differently put, your headache needs to persist for at least 15 days a month before being eligible to receive this treatment.
Botox treatment may be beneficial for the symptoms associated with migraines, including nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to lights, sounds, and smells.
By altering the transmission of pain signals, Botox can be very helpful in the prevention of migraine attacks.
Once you receive the injection, you will experience pain relief after 10–14 days. In some cases, you may need additional injections for your symptoms to subside.
In a 2018 study, researchers found that treating migraines with Botox is safe, effective, and well-tolerated by patients over a period of 3 years. Furthermore, the study demonstrated a reduction in the frequency of migraine headaches in people who receive Botox injections.
Another review of several studies found that Botox injections prevent migraine attacks after 3 months of receiving the treatment.
These studies showcase the potential benefits offered by Botox injections and their role in treating and preventing chronic migraines.
Botox is a naturally-occurring chemical that blocks the transmission of pain signals and lowers the risk of other symptoms of migraines (e.g., nausea, photophobia).
We hope that this article managed to highlight the potential uses of Botox to treat migraine headaches. However, if you have any questions, or concerns feel free to contact our board-certified neurologist for more information about botox injections for migraines.