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Migraines affect more than one billion people worldwide, making them among the most common neurological conditions. If you’re one of those men, women, or children struggling to control their migraine headaches, you know how disruptive they can be. However, relief is possible with intravenous infusion treatments, especially for severe headaches that aren’t responding to the usual therapies. What is infusion therapy for migraines, and how might it work for you?
Infusion therapy for migraines administers medications through the veins to provide fast relief from severe or persistent headache symptoms. You can also receive regular infusions designed to prevent migraines before they start.
Traditional migraine treatments often involve oral medications, such as NSAIDs and triptans, that relieve the pain of headaches and related symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light or sound. While effective for many, the delayed absorption of these treatments can limit their results.
On the other hand, infusion therapy delivers medications directly into the bloodstream, offering rapid relief by bypassing the digestive system. These treatments can also include an individual-specific combination of fluids and electrolytes to provide a more immediate and comprehensive approach to migraine management.
Here are examples of migraine conditions or symptoms that may respond better to infusion therapy than standard treatments:
Migraine cocktail infusions must be prescribed by a physician or nurse practitioner but can also be effective for those whose abortive medications fail to break a migraine cycle and need immediate relief.
IV infusion therapy for migraines is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, there can be potential side effects. Common responses to infusions may include:
Serious side effects are rare but could include allergic reactions or local infections. If you have concerns about these or other possible side effects, contact your doctor.
Infusions might include one or more of these medications that address pain relief in a specific way or treat a particular symptom:
Some of these drugs, such as DHE and Vyepti, are often used alone due to their targeted action. However, in cases of acute intractable migraines, a combination of IV treatments can address multiple symptoms simultaneously.
A migraine cocktail is a combination of infusion medications that address the various factors contributing to migraine attacks, and can provide a decrease in severity and sometimes resolve symptoms. The specific components can vary but typically include the following:
Your doctor will tailor a migraine cocktail to your specific condition, symptoms, and medical history.
The duration of migraine infusion treatments ranges depending on the specific medication. For instance, preventive therapies like Vyepti are single IV infusions, typically lasting about 30 minutes. In contrast, acute treatments such as DHE may require longer infusion times, sometimes over several hours.
The effectiveness of these treatments also differs. Preventive infusions like Vyepti have been shown to reduce migraine frequency for up to 12 weeks following a single infusion. Acute therapies aim to provide rapid relief during a migraine attack, but the duration of relief can vary among individuals.
Consequently, the frequency of infusion therapy for migraine headaches depends on the treatment type and individual patient needs. Preventive treatments are typically administered once every three months to maintain their effect, while acute treatments are given as needed during severe migraine episodes that do not respond to other interventions.
Before starting IV infusion therapy, you will likely undergo a thorough medical evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Your doctor will also consider your medical history, current medications, and any allergies you might have.
When you check in for infusion therapy for migraines, be ready to provide ID and insurance information. They will then take you to a treatment room within the infusion center that is equipped with cozy recliners and Wi-Fi so you are comfortable during the infusion procedure. A healthcare professional will check your vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. The following typically takes place during the infusion process:
You will also receive aftercare instructions for what to do at home, including any activity restrictions, signs of potential side effects to watch for, and when to follow up with your healthcare provider.
Eat a light meal and drink plenty of water before your appointment. Proper hydration and nutrition can help your body respond better to the treatment. Wear loose-fitting, relaxed clothing to stay comfortable during the session and allow easy access for the IV placement. Additionally, consider bringing books, magazines, or electronic devices with headphones to occupy yourself during long treatments.
Persistent, acute migraines accompanied by severe nausea, vomiting, or aura can prevent you from living your best life. Now that you understand what infusion therapy for migraines is, you and your doctor can decide together if it is appropriate for you. Learn more about how to get started with treatment at one of our infusion centers.
This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or professional services. It is intended as a general resource to aid in understanding diagnoses and treatment options. If you have concerns about a medical condition or are interested in a specific treatment, please consult your healthcare provider.
