I get migraines and find the only thing that helps is Imitrex - Can you suggest !
Question:
I get migraines and find the only thing that helps is Imitrex - Can you suggest any other alternatives?
Answers:
A variety of triggers can precipitate an attack in those susceptible to migraines. These initiators include certain foods, stress, lack of sleep, changes in the weather, bright light, fluctuations in blood sugar levels, liver problems, dental pain, hormonal swings that occur with the menstrual cycle or the use of birth control pills, environmental chemicals, and exposure to cigarette smoke. Migraines run in families, and women are more susceptible than men.
Identify and eliminate your migraine triggers.
Try biofeedback or relaxation training to help you cope with stress.
Drink at least 48 ounces of water a day and exercise regularly.
Certain foods and beverages -- especially those containing compounds known as amines -- are notorious migraine triggers. If you're a migraine sufferer, try to avoid the following: aged cheeses, onions, pickles, cured meats, red wine, beer, sour cream, nuts, freshly baked yeast products, eggs, tomatoes, citrus fruits, and caffeinated drinks. Although chocolate is often implicated as a migraine trigger, some new studies indicate that this connection may be a misconception.
Eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna, may help prevent migraines. Omega-3s seem to alter blood chemicals, reducing the risk of blood vessel spasms associated with migraines.
The recommended supplements are useful in preventing migraines and may be used in place of prescription drugs. (Don't stop taking them, however, without your doctor's approval.) You'll probably still need prescription medication to combat a migraine headache that has already begun.
Calcium/Magnesium: 400 mg magnesium and 100 mg calcium twice a day. Take with food; sometimes sold in a single supplement.
Feverfew : 250 mg every morning. Standardized to contain at lease 0.4% parthenolide.
5-HTP: 100 mg 3 times a day Don't use longer than 3 months without doctor's okay.
Riboflavin : 400 mg every morning. Best used for chronic migraines. Also called vitamin B2.
Vitamin C: 1,000 mg 3 times a day.Reduce dose if diarrhea develops.
Pantothenic Acid: 400 mg twice a day. Take with meals.