What a Headache! - Using Botox for Migraines.

Author: Dr. Andrew Kalin MD

Do you suffer from headaches? You’re not alone, 3.3 million Americans suffer with chronic migraine annually. The definition of chronic migraine is very specific. According to The International Headache Society chronic migraine is defined as:

1. 15 Headache days a month

2. Headache lasts for a minimum of 4 hrs

3. 8 of the 15 Headache days have to have migraine features:

a. Pain is moderate or severe and often intense

b. Pain may be on one side of the head or both

c. Pain can be of a throbbing, pound or pulsating sensation

d. Pain gets worse with physical activity or movement

e. Patient must have nausea, vomiting and or light or sound sensitivity

4. Need to have a minimum of 3 consecutive Headache months

If you have been diagnosed with chronic migraine, you may be a candidate for Botox. In, 2010 the FDA approved Botox as a preventative treatment of chronic migraine.

What is Botox?

Botox is an injectable drug produced by the Allergan pharmaceutical company that is comprised of a toxin called onobotulinumtoxin A. This toxin is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The toxin prevents the release of a chemical in muscle tissue that relaxes muscles by preventing them from contracting. When injected into facial muscles, the toxin can help decrease the appearance of wrinkles and in the case of migraines helps improve headache as well.

Where is Botox injected?

There are 7 major muscle groups that are injected:

How long does the treatment last?

Typically Botox injections provide 3 months worth of migraine headache relief.

Talk you your healthcare provider to see if you’re a candidate for Botox injections. Dr. Gallardi and her team at Face2Face Surgery Centre are experts in performing the procedure. Head to their website and social media pages to learn more.

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