Episodic migraine occurs fewer than 15 days per month but can become chronic if poorly controlled. It is estimated that preventive therapy is indicated in over one third of patients with episodic migraine. Dr Barbara Nye from Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, discusses optimal approaches for managing episodic migraine. According to Dr Nye, several factors, including patient preference, clinical evidence, and insurance coverage, will help inform which treatments can be offered.
She mentions that currently approved treatments include nonspecific therapeutics such as antiseizure, antidepressant, and blood pressure medications. Newer therapies known as gepants and injectable monoclonal antibodies are also available to manage and prevent episodic migraine.
Dr Nye concludes that the appropriate therapeutic goal is a reduction in headache frequency, reduction in headache severity, and improved response to medications, as well as decreasing the level of disability that patients are experiencing.
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Barbara L. Nye, MD, Associate Professor of Neurology, Wake Forest University; Director, Headache Fellowship, Department of Neurology, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Barbara L. Nye, MD, has disclosed no relevant financial relationships.