Rx Ideas?
I began having chronic migraines (I'm guessing) a little over a year ago. They have become either numerous enough or rapid enough or something where there doesn't seem to be any break in between them anymore and reality is just one constant migraine that might ebb slightly for maybe a half hour and then returns, usually gradually over the course of 10-20 minutes. So I get maybe an hour at best for a break and then it is back to dealing with this monster some more. The last five days have all been seven or above, out of ten, on my misery scale. I've seen my PCP every week for a month, but I can't see a neurologist until February 15th. My PCP tried prescribing Magnesium, which didn't do anything, Butterbur, which does help a little, and Topamax, which I keep taking hoping it is doing something. She also suggested a nasal spray, but I really hate the feeling of nasal sprays and, if possible, would like to avoid that route.
I'm guessing I am running out of options for treatment she can provide and was wondering if there were any ideas I could bring to her for us to try? Much appreciated!
Hi Tinesthal,
Thank you for sharing your experience and reaching out for support. I'm glad you have a provider who's willing to work with you and an upcoming appointment with a neurologist. I'm sorry you've still been having symptoms despite trying some treatments. Unfortunately, it can be a process of trial and error before finding the right fit. The good news is there are many many treatments available. Here is a link to the most common medication treatments for acute symptoms: https://migraine.com/migraine-treatment/migraine-medication-relief/. This article includes prevention medication treatments: https://migraine.com/migraine-treatment/prevention-medications/. There are also multiple alternative treatment options that some people find helpful: https://migraine.com/complimentary-and-alternative-therapies/. In the meantime, please know you're not alone in this! Feel free to come here for support anytime.
Best,
Brooke (Migraine.com team)
Sure hope the Neuro can help you.
I have been dealing with Migraine for the last 25 years and it truly is trial and error with no shortcuts unfortunately.
My misery started with a hysterectomy at 29. Did the saliva test and went on HRT for several years with no improvement.
My MD had me try absolutely everything out there and nothing helped much.
Been to Headache clinics, Headache Specialists, Neuros, etc.
I have seen more than 25 different docs over the years and most look at my records, try a couple of things and then pass me on to someone else.
Even my MD was surprised at how some docs he tried to refer me to, after seeing my file just told me not to bother.
After my MD retired I started with a Pain Management Doctor and that has been the best thing I ever did.
Now I take a long acting drug and a short acting drug daily and at least I can live a somewhat normal life.
Just don't give up no matter how many doctors you have to see or how many drugs you have to try, something will work for you.
I know your misery when pain gets out of control and you have days of vomiting and pain.
Is your doctor open to trying opioids?
At least til you can find something else in the preventative line.
I mean you have to be able to function on a daily basis.
Best of luck and let us know how things to with the Neuro.
I have tried so many different medications, the one that seems to work the best for me is Relpax 40 mg...but my insurance only allows me to get 6 pills every 25 days. Some times that would last, but most times it doesn't. My migraines get so bad, that I can't function. I wanted to ask if Botox works? And what are the side effects? I tried taking topamax and preventive, but I had an allergic reaction and got a rash, that lasted 6 months, that in itself was a nightmare.
I work in prescription insurance in America -- please keep in mind that in America you can appeal ANY health or prescription insurance coverage. Most prescription plans have dispensing limits on categories of medication (like the one Relpax is in) based on FDA guidelines. These are a guideline only and most plans have the option to get a prior authorization -- that is, to somewhat customize the coverage based on your individual needs. Call the member services number on the back of your card for information about how your insurance plan handles personal requests/prior authorizations.
