Hi everyone -

My doctor is thinking about putting me on a headache preventative, which I assume would be Topamax or something similar.

However, I'm not sure if I am the best candidate. Here's my sitch:

I get headaches/migraines sporadically usually one or two weeks out of the month, it's USUALLY around my period so pretty sure its mainly hormonal, although I do get the occasional random one. I use over the counter and migraine meds (Imitrex, used to use Maxalt) to treat them but it seems as though these meds only stop the pain for maybe the rest of the day or evening, and I usually end up with a headache again the next day. Needless to say, during these times I end up going through a whole pack of Imitrex so i'm pretty sure I start getting rebound headaches as well, but just one pill never knocks it out completely.

So, because of this, a preventative sounds like a good idea, but I was always under the impression that preventatives were best for people who have chronic daily head aches. Like I said, Mine usually only occur one or two weeks out of the month and it isn't constant. The rest of the time I am fine.

I also have an appt with a good gyno in a couple weeks so I plan to ask her about my b.c. since I know part of the problem is with my cycle. I am already on ortho Tri-Cyclen, but wonder if I need the low dose or something.

Anyway, what do you think? From what I've described, would I be a good preventative candidate? I should also mention that most of the time these headaches are unbearable - i can't go to work or do anything really but lay around - I get very nauseous and sick.

My doctor is thinking about putting me on a headache preventative, which I assume would be Topamax or something similar.
First of all do not assume anything.

Once you find out exactly what it is the doctor prescribes for you as a preventative, make sure the doctor goes over with you ALL THE BENEFITS AND SIDE EFFECTS OF THIS MEDICATION. ASK QUESTIONS!!!!!
Since you have access to a computer, strongly suggest that you do your own research on the medication by using Google as your search guide.

Most migraine preventatives are taken *daily*.
Topamax is taken is small mg dosage *initially* with the mgs gradually increasing. NOT EVERYONE CAN AND/OR ARE WILLING TO TOLORATE THE SIDE EFFECTS.

Good luck! :angel:

Yes, I definitely understand to ask about side effects as I am on several meds for anxiety. However, what do you think about my original question? Do my symptoms fit a need for a daily preventative?

You don't have to get chronic daily headaches to be a candidate for a preventative. From what you have described, I think a preventative is a good idea. However, if in fact, you are experiencing rebound headaches, a preventative won't be very effective. You have to get rid of the rebound headaches first. Unfortunatley, the only way to do that is to stop using all pain medication for at least a couple of weeks.

If your migraines are partially hormonal, you might consider getting off of the pill. I switched to an IUD. Their are two kinds. One is hormone free and the other has very little hormone at all. Getting off the pill, has made a huge differnce. I don't get as many migraines around that time of the month anymore. It's just a suggestion.

Anyway, Topamax has worked for me so far. This is my third month on it. Some people haven't had good luck with it. I guess it depends on the person. Personally, I haven't experinced any of the side effects that come with taking it like some of the other people have except for the weight loss. It has decreased my appetite. So, I have lost about 10 lbs. so far.

Good luck.

mickih

mjewell
You sound a lot like I did (before I started getting migraines constantly and had to go on Topamax...)
Anway... I went on the pill and timed it so I only had my period every three months ( I know the pill is controversial with migraines, but it worked for me for several years) I also took Relpax for the migraines I did get. My doctor says that does not create rebound headaches. You may want to ask your doctor about Relpax.
Personally, I have some other neuro stuff going on and like I said I had to change, but that combo worked for me for several years. Good luck!

Very good advice, thank you all. I think I will ask the gyno about Seasonale - isn't that the four period a year pill? I'm not sure I am ready to go off the pill just yet, but if nothing else works I might try that eventually too.

I'll ask about Topamax and relpax too - my insurance doesn't cover many migraine meds, if a doctor says you have to have it will insurance cover it? Anyway, I have heard from several peeps that Topamax causes weight loss...one of my friends lost 20 pounds...that's terrific!!

mjewell, any migraine meds that your insurance does not cover, always ask your doctor for enough samples to last you till the next office visit.

I do this all the time & I have full prescription coverage. :D

ok, thanks for the advice mz. migraine.