Medication Options to Treat Vestibular Migraine
Vestibular migraine is a neurological condition that can affect your sense of balance. Unlike other types of migraines that primarily cause severe headaches, vestibular migraines come with symptoms of vertigo, the uncomfortable sensation that the ground is moving even when you're standing still.
There are several types of medications used to treat vestibular migraines. Medications used to treat vestibular migraine are similar to those used for other migraines. Each medication type has a different effect in helping to treat vestibular migraines. Let's take a closer look:
Abortive Medications: Abortive or acute medications are used to treat a vestibular migraine attack. These medications are used to stop the symptoms of a migraine when it occurs.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen can help relieve migraine pain by reducing inflammation.
- Medications for Vertigo: These include antihistamines such as meclizine.
- Antinausea medications such as metoclopramide or prochlorperazine.
- Triptans: These medicines work on the trigeminal nerves to change blood flow and reduce inflammation.
- Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists: These newer medications specifically target CGRP, a protein involved in migraine attacks. For acute migraine attacks, the gepant type of CGRP receptor blocker may be used.
- Ditans: These medications bind to a serotonin receptor in the brain to prevent the release of CGRP that leads to migraine headache.
- Ergotamines: These drugs narrow blood vessels in the brain to help relieve a migraine headache.
Preventive Medications: These medications aim to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. Examples include:
- Calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil or flunarizine
- Beta-blockers, such as propranolol
- Antiseizure medications, such as topiramate and valproic acid
- Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline or venlafaxine
- CGRP antagonists, including monoclonal antibodies and some gepants
It's important to note that while these medications can be effective in managing vestibular migraines, it is always recommended to consult with your doctor before starting any new medication. They will consider your individual medical history and provide guidance on which medication may be most suitable for you based on your individual factors, including other medical conditions or medications.
Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Medication side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information