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Migraine and long term serotonin syndrome

Hi everyone, I've had longterm hemorrhagic & cluster migraines. I've recently had surgery on my spine (lower lumbar L4, L5 & S1). It was successful but I had complications afterwards when my body rejected all medications (serotonin syndrome ). This included Topiramate and Relpax (triptophan) for my constant migraines. I was taken off everything, including St John's wort and specific foods and herbs are off the table for me for life. I can't have caffeine of any type and drink upwards of 2.5 to 3 Litres of water daily - this helps me big time. I was in hospital for 3 weeks as this process was excruciating straight after surgery but am ok and have been doing physio intensively for the last month back at home.

My question is my migraines are constant, headaches are typical with severe serotonin syndrome but these are my usual migraines and are every day. I've been referred to a neurologist who specializes in migraines in 2 weeks. The GP mentioned several options CGRP is ruled out for me, so botox seems to be the one thing I'm expecting he will bring up. I qualify for the Medicare use of botox, which is so helpful, our medical costs have been huge.

Can I ask for some feedback on botox therapy please? How many injections are usual? How long does it last? - I'm reading up to 3 months on this forum. Also has anyone found their migraines have ceased whilst on botox and how long did this take? Sorry for so many questions, I'm from Australia and any help is appreciated. (In case the serotonin question is answered ..resolves in 24-72 hours - I've been diagnosed as having to live with this for life sadly). Thanks in advance. Michelle

  1. *Hemiplegic migraines. Auto correct mistake..sorry.

    1. Hi MichelleLW,

      How frustrating! I'm sorry you are going through this right now.

      I've been getting Botox for almost three years and am very happy with us. It's cut my migraine attack in half! I still get between 10-14 a month, but for the most part they are easier to treat and less severe. I am very pleased.

      Botox is not a cure, however. It's a preventive medication that helps reduce attack frequency and severity. There is a protocol of 31 shots around the head, every 12 weeks. Here is a great article on Botox that may help; https://migraine.com/blog/botox-basics/.

      It can take three, even four rounds of Botox before we see improvement. It took almost three for me!

      I hope this helps!
      Nancy

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