Prostaglandin analog mechanisms are not effective in refractory chronic cluster headache.
Prostaglandin E analogs have been shown to be effective in the treatment of refractory trigeminal neuralgia in patients with multiple sclerosis. Prostaglandin E inhibits the functions of T lymphocytes which are involved in the pathophysiology of cluster headache. Therefore, a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study on the efficacy of misoprostol in chronic refractory cluster headache was performed. Eight patients were treated with 600 micrograms misoprostol and with placebo for a 2-week period. No differences in attack frequency, intensity, global impression, and side effects could be detected, suggesting that prostaglandin E analogs are not effective in the treatment of chronic cluster headache.
Evers
S
S
Department of Neurology, University of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Str. 33, D-48129 Münster, Germany.
Masur
H
H
Sörös
P
P
Brilla
R
R
Husstedt
I W
IW
D000328:Adult; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003027:Cluster Headache / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016595:Misoprostol / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010148:Intractable Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*
D016595:Misoprostol