Monday, May 28, 2012
Tuesday, October 13, 2009 bellyake asks

Q: Why is there a limited number of pills prescribed for a migraine (reglan)?

I receive botox injections for migraine every 12 weeks, which has drastically reduced the intensity and quantity of headaches I get; however, I still get at minimum two migraines per month, sometimes lasting up to a week. When one of these episodes comes on and is accompanied by intense nausea, my neurologist fills a prescription for 5 Reglan tablets. (two day 1, two next day, one left over).. after filling the script a few times I have a dose to stave off a migraine attack, but I don't know why she isn't prescribing 30 tablets or 15- it makes no sense to have to call in each time and get such a small quantity. Is there a medical reason to prescribe in such a small quantity?

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Answers (1)
Nancy Harris Bonk, Health Guide
10/16/09 10:15pm

Hi bellyake,

 

I think this is a questions better suited for your doctor or pharmacist. However, I do know that reglan is for short term use.

 

Anyone who has three or more Migraines a month needs to be talking with their doctor about prevention. There's growing evidence that Migraine is a progressive brain disease. A recent study showed that Migraines can cause brain damage, and that people with three or more Migraines a month are more susceptible to this damage. For more information, see Is Migraine a Progressive Brain Disease? and Yes, Migraines Can Cause Brain Damage.

 

A single Migraine that lasts 72 hours or longer with less than a solid four-hour pain-free period, while awake, is termed status Migrainous. You should see your doctor or go to the emergency room if a Migraine lasts that long. See Status Migrainous - The Basics for more information.

 

If your doctor isn't able to help you, it may well be time to consult a Migraine and headache specialist. It's important to note that neurologists aren't necessarily Migraine and headache specialists. Take a look at the article Migraine and Headache Specialists - What's So Special? If you need help finding a Migraine specialist, check our listing of Patient Recommended Migraine and Headache Specialists.

 

I hope this helps,

Nancy

 

 

 

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By bellyake— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 10/13/09