Botox could prevent migraine headaches, study suggests
26 February 2010
Injections of botulinum toxin type A commonly used for cosmetic purposes may also prevent certain types of migraine, research suggests.
US researchers found Botox injections administered in the glabella (the area between the eyebrows, just above the nose), forehead and eye areas were associated with significant reductions in headache frequency in 18 people with a history of self-reported migraines (Arch Dermatol 2010; 146: 159-63).
The effect was most pronounced in those with imploding and ocular migraines, who experienced a significant reduction in migraine rates from 7.1 days per month to 0.6 days. However, the effect was not as pronounced in those with exploding migraines.
The authors speculated that Botox may affect signalling pathways in the nervous system or block pain through a direct anti-inflammatory action.
Last Reviewed: 26 February 2010
- 1. Kim CC, Bogart MM, Wee SA, Burstein R, Arndt KA, Dover JS. Predicting migraine responsiveness to botulinum toxin type A injections. Arch Dermatol 2010; 146(2): 159-63. Abstract available at: http://archderm.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/short/146/2/159?home
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