What is a migraine? The exact cause of migraines remains a mystery. However, several factors are associated with migraines. A migraine is a complex disorder that involves episodes of recurrent and severe headaches. A migraine headache is usually on one side and may be associated with visual or sensory symptoms, collectively called aura. The aura …
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What is an occipital nerve stimulation procedure? Occipital nerve stimulation is a therapeutic procedure to implant an electrical device that diminishes the function of the occipital nerve (the nerve to the back of the head) with the intention of reducing daily headaches and persistent migraines. The device consists of electrodes connected with insulated leads to a pulse generator that delivers …
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How does occipital nerve stimulation work? Occipital nerve stimulation relieves pain in the back of the head (occipital region) by producing a tingling sensation in the occipital area. Occipital nerve stimulation relieves pain in the back of the head (occipital region) by producing a tingling sensation in the occipital area. The electrical impulses from the pulse generator affect the occipital …
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What is Aimovig, and what is it used for? Aimovig is a prescription medicine used for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. It is not known if Aimovig is safe and effective in children under 18 years of age. Before you start using Aimovig, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you are: Allergic to …
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What is a lumbar puncture (LP)? A lumbar puncture or spinal tap procedure provides lifesaving information in disease diagnosis. A lumbar puncture (LP) is the insertion of a needle into the spinal canal to collect and examine the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (cerebral spinal fluid). It is termed a "lumbar puncture" because the needle is placed …
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What is sumatriptan nasal powder? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Sumatriptan is a drug that is used for treating migraine headaches. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin receptor agonists. Other medications in this drug class include: naratriptan (Amerge) zolmitriptan (Zomig) rizatriptan (Maxalt) frovatriptan (Frova) eletriptan (Relpax) almotriptan (Axert) Migraine headaches are believed to result …
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What are barbiturates? Barbiturates are central nervous depressants. They reduce the activity of nerves causing muscle relaxation. They can reduce heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. All barbiturates affect gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter (chemical) that nerves use to communicate with one another. For what conditions are barbiturates prescribed? Barbiturates are medications used for treating headaches, insomnia, and seizures. Barbiturates …
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What is Zecuity? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Sumatriptan iontophoretic transdermal system (Zecuity) is anti-migraine drug that is delivered through the skin or transdermally. It is a serotonin (5HT) 1b/1d receptor agonist that is used for the acute treatment of migraine headaches in adults. Zecuity contains the drug, sumatriptan, which has been previously available as tablets, injections, and …
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What is cyproheptadine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Cyproheptadine (Periactin) is an oral antihistamine used for treating allergic reactions. It works by blocking the effects of histamine and is classified as a first generation antihistamine. Histamine is released by cells of the body during several types of allergic reactions and, to a lesser extent, during some viral …
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What is fenoprofen, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Fenoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is effective for treating the fever, pain, and swelling caused by inflammation. Fenoprofen belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Other members of the NSAID class of drugs include ibuprofen (Motrin), indomethacin (Indocin), nabumetone (Relafen), naproxen (Aleve) …
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