For Terri Robert: You have been so helpful. Any recommendations on this protocol?
Terri- when I have stopped pain meds in the past, the headaches continue, and it was an arduous process to stop and a long and painful one. My neurologist said he thoughtsI'd need pain meds the rest of my life as my heart attack has narrowed other options for my chronic migraine. Does Dr. Krusz believe this is ever warranted?
Ouch,
Glad I could help!
This is a good question, and one that was discussed at the recent symposium of the American Headache Society that I attended.
Here's the problem -- pain meds are going to keep you in a medication overuse / rebound cycle if you take them more than two or three days a week. Also, our bodies tend to become tolerant to them, and we find that we need more and more to get the same results.
The preference is to keep working to find an effective preventive regimen. I DO understand how easy it is to feel as if you've tried everything. Been there myself. BUT, with over 100 medications and supplements in use for Migraine prevention, it's literally impossible to have tried them all. You can find a list of them in Migraine preventive medications - too many options to give up!
I'm concerned that your doctor thought the DHE used in the Raskin protocol would be safe for you. I really think you need a Migraine specialist. There are a couple in the your area who have been recommended by patients. See our listing of Patient Recommended Specialists. While I hope you can find someone close to you, you can also take a look at neighboring states. I have to drive eight hours to Philadelphia or fly to Dallas when I need help. Yes, it's difficult, but I want you to know that it's been worth it.
Oh, on the subject of what to take when you have a Migraine, have you ever tried Midrin. It IS actually a Migraine abortive. Of course, it too needs to be limited to two or three days a week to avoid medication overuse issues.
Hope this helps,
Teri
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