Role of botulinum toxin type A in the prophylactic treatment of migraine headaches.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the role of botulinum toxin type A in the prophylaxis of migraine headaches.


METHODS
MEDLINE (1966-July 2005), Iowa Drug Information Service (1966-July 2005), and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970-July 2005) searches were performed. Key search terms included botulinum and migraine.


RESULTS
Patients who received botulinum toxin type A injections for treatment of hyperfunctional facial lines also experienced relief of migraine symptoms, leading to further investigation. Four clinical trials and 2 retrospective chart reviews evaluating the use of botulinum toxin type A injections for the prophylactic treatment of migraines are discussed. Limitations of these trials include problems with blinding, use of different injection sites, and inconsistent dosing.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of 3 double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, 2 retrospective chart reviews, and an open-label study indicate that botulinum toxin type A may be a safe and efficacious prophylactic treatment for migraine headaches.
Chilson
Crystal N
CN
Skaggs School of Pharmacy, University of Montana, Missoula, USA. crystinichole@gmail.com
Brown
Sherrill J
SJ
D001905:Botulinum Toxins / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D006801:Humans; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012189:Retrospective Studies
D001905:Botulinum Toxins