6. Ergot Alkaloids
Ergot alkaloids help treat migraine headaches by constricting brain blood vessels. They modulate neurotransmitters such as serotonin, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that regulates pain.
These medicines also prevent the release of inflammatory proteins by stopping a brain nerve called the trigeminal. Examples of these medicines are ergotamine and Dihydroergotamine. They are widely used for treating migraine headaches.
5. 5-HT1f Drugs
5-HT1f drugs prevent the brain from releasing glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter. They help lessen brain activity without causing any disruption to the regular functioning of the cells.
Migraine headaches are caused by heightened brain activity in specific regions of the brain. Since 5-HT1f drugs can help lessen brain activity, the pain that comes with a migraine headache is significantly lessened.
4. CGRP Receptor Blockers
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor blockers control the release of CGRP in the brain. Excessive release of this particular protein causes the outer layer of the brain to become swollen, leading to intense pain.
CGRP receptor blockers are injected into the body to relieve inflammation. It is considered to be the latest treatment for migraine headaches.
3. Preventative Drug Therapy
Preventive drug therapy consists of various medicines that reduce, if not, prevent the onset of a migraine headache. Also known as prophylactic drugs, they are primarily used for other health issues.
Examples of these drugs are anticonvulsants (used to treat epilepsy), beta-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure), calcium channel blockers (also used to treat high blood pressure), and antidepressants.
2. Trigger Point Injections
A trigger point injection can also help treat migraine. This particular treatment requires an injection of pain-soothing medications. These types of injections can be injected into the muscles of trigger points. These muscles of trigger points are usually in the neck, shoulders, and head.
Trigger point injections usually make use of medicines such as corticosteroids, local anesthetics, neurotoxins, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and local anesthetics. They numb are affected area, relieving pain from a migraine attack.
1. Neuromodulation Devices
Neuromodulation refers to a technique that directly affects nerves. It is the process of altering nerve activity, also known as modulation. It usually involves the application of electrical current or pharmacological medications to a specific area of the body.
Neuromodulation devices are relatively new. They can help treat migraine by changing or adjusting nerve pathways in the brain. The nerves are not stimulated. Hence, brain activity is turned down.
These are migraine treatments worth considering.