Management of menstrual migraine.
BACKGROUND
Migraine is more prevalent in women than men. Hormonal changes can influence the occurrence of migraine, particularly related to the menstrual cycle. Menstrual migraine may require both acute and preventive treatment.


RESULTS
Gender differences in migraine may be a result of variations in the central nervous system of men and women as well as the effects of estrogen. Migraine attacks occurring in the perimenstrual period respond well to acute treatment with triptans. Hormonal manipulation may reduce migraine occurrence, especially when related to hormonal fluctuations in the perimenstrual period.


CONCLUSIONS
Effective migraine management requires an understanding of the unique epidemiologic and pathophysiological factors affecting women. An understanding of associated hormonal influences facilitates development of individualized treatment plans.
Mannix
Lisa K
LK
LKMannixMD@aol.com
D000328:Adult; D004967:Estrogens / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D008598:Menstruation; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D017366:Serotonin Receptor Agonists / Q000494:pharmacology; D012737:Sex Factors
D004967:Estrogens; D017366:Serotonin Receptor Agonists