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        Cluster Headache Help and Support >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies >> Good results from prednisone/verapamil combo
        
(Message started by: kcakebread on Sep 10^th, 2006, 2:41pm)

Title: Good results from prednisone/verapamil combo
Post by kcakebread on Sep 10^th, 2006, 2:41pm

I saw Dr. Peters at the Northern California Headache Clinic after 3.5 months of cluster headaches. My episodes usually last only 4-6 weeks. He prescribed verapamil and a ten-day regimen of prednisone. The attacks stopped after two days. I'm still pain free after three weeks. I feel a twinge every one in a while, so I think I'm still in the cluster zone. Next step: MRI.

Note: Do not take verapamil with taurine or red bull. The combination can slow your heart too much.

Also, for those of you who have struggled with the constipation side effects of verapamil, I have had good results from a prescription of a relatively new drug called Amitizia.

kfc

Title: Re: Good results from prednisone/verapamil combo
Post by Bob_Johnson on Sep 10^th, 2006, 2:52pm

Good news! This combination has been a work horse for many folks.

Title: Re: Good results from prednisone/verapamil combo
Post by Kevin_M on Sep 10^th, 2006, 3:51pm

Good news, like Bob says. Three and a half months is a serious motivator to put the hammer down on this kind of pain for some ASAP results. Maybe make it a date earlier next time, glad you go it in action!

good to mention the tip on the combining with verapamil.

Hope this cycle ends too for you KC.

Title: Re: Good results from prednisone/verapamil combo
Post by kcakebread on Sep 10^th, 2006, 4:09pm

oh, i had gotten into action much earlier, but with the wrong doctor. My primary care guy had been doing fine treating my headaches until now. I work full time and I have a six year old, so I can't deal with the side effects of some of these drugs. Topamax nearly sent me to the hospital. Crossing my fingers....

kfc

Title: Re: Good results from prednisone/verapamil combo
Post by Kevin_M on Sep 10^th, 2006, 4:24pm

on 09/10/06 at 14:41:11, kcakebread wrote:

He prescribed verapamil and a ten-day regimen of prednisone. The attacks stopped after two days. I'm still pain free after three weeks.

Oh, I had read into this that the episode's duration had been a mystery for prevention 'til the pred taper and verap.
Topomax isn't for everybody. Hope the verap is treating you well so far. :)