Evidenced-based use of botanicals, minerals, and vitamins in the prophylactic treatment of migraines.
OBJECTIVE
To analyze evidence-based information about alternative prophylactic pharmacological migraine treatments utilizing feverfew, butter-bur, magnesium, and riboflavin and to discuss the mechanism of action, dosage recommendations, side effects, and contraindications for each treatment.


METHODS
Data obtained via electronic databases and professional medical references.


CONCLUSIONS
Current clinical data support the use of fever-few, butterbur, magnesium, and riboflavin in migraine prophylaxis; however, studies are limited but promising regarding the participants' perceived relief. Studies with rigorous methodologies and larger sample sizes are needed to further support the safe and effective use of these treatments.


CONCLUSIONS
With increased patient access to information regarding alternative migraine treatments, nurse practitioners (NPs) and other health care providers must be knowledgeable about evidence-based data regarding these alternative treatments to appropriately offer safe patient care.
Rios
Juanita
J
University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, USA. janie_rios01@yahoo.com
Passe
Megan M
MM
D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D008274:Magnesium / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009722:Nurse Practitioners / Q000458:organization & administration; D024802:Nurse's Role; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D018579:Patient Selection; D036901:Petasites; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D011322:Primary Prevention / Q000379:methods; D012256:Riboflavin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012449:Safety; D020903:Tanacetum parthenium; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D008274:Magnesium; D012256:Riboflavin