MIGRAINE SUFFERERS: WARNING IF YOU HAVE ATHEROSCLEROSIS

The primary medication for migraine headaches are triptans. However, triptans are not indicated in patients with a history of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries/veins) causing heart problems (such as heart attack), stroke or peripheral vascular diseases, or with uncontrolled hypertension. However, a recent report revealed that 22% of such patients have received a prescription for a triptan.

COMMENT: Triptans have been available for a long time and are used almost like Tylenol or Advil. If you have atherosclerosis and migraines, be aware that you should not take triptans because they can cause cardiovascular side effects. Better yet, try acupuncture: it is very effective for decreasing or resolving migraines long term so that you don't have to take triptans.

Posted on Sun, December 11, 2011 by Larry Altshuler, M.D. filed under

1 comment (Add your own)

1. Rae wrote:
Also known as SSRI cessation syrodnme , SSRI discontinuation syrodnme is a fairly rare medical condition which arises as a result of interruption/discontinuation of an SSRI treatment of four or more weeks. The symptoms associated with discontinuation syrodnme may also occur as a result of decreased SSRI dosage. I learned all about it as I weaned myself off the relatively short-acting SSRI Celexa, but the symptoms have also been reported for Zoloft and Paxil. In severe cases, patients may be switched to Prozac for the weaning-off process, as the latter's longer half-life results in a more gradual transition period, and milder symptoms.Here are the symptoms:dizziness (vertigo)lightheadednessnausea and/or vomitinganxietyinsomniavivid dreamsirritabilitylethargydull headacheelectric shock-like sensations (tingling)sweatingtremorsdiarrheaDiscontinuation syrodnme may appear as soon as within 24 hours of the discontinuation/interruption/reduction of dosage, or after as long as a week (as it did with me), depending on the half-life of the SSRI used, patient's body chemistry, etc. Likewise, the symptoms may last anywhere from a day to three weeks. The best way to avoid discontinuation syrodnme is to stop taking an SSRI by gradually decreasing one's dosage before ceasing to take it entirely.

Mon, May 21, 2012 @ 8:01 PM

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