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        Cluster Headache Help and Support >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies >> Verapamil/Kudzu Question
        
(Message started by: JohnWF on Sep 16^th, 2006, 5:48pm)

Title: Verapamil/Kudzu Question
Post by JohnWF on Sep 16^th, 2006, 5:48pm

I've been taking Planetary Formulae Kudzu for some time. It helps, but doesn't do the job completely. Besides the Vitamins (like Magnesium and B Complex), I also take Ergotamine (not Cafergot- just Ergotomine Tartate) before bed with 9 mg. of Melatonin. Recently, I've also added Verapamil (480 mg per day) and am keeping my headaches mostly at bay (for now).

Is there a problem that I should be aware of regarding taking Kudzu and Verapamil? I've read different things, so am a little confused. Looking for input!

I read this board regularly, although I don't post much. I really appreciate this site!

Title: Re: Verapamil/Kudzu Question
Post by Melissa on Sep 16^th, 2006, 6:36pm

Yes, verap can block the effects of Kudzu. Read here: http://www.med-owl.com/clusterheadaches/tiki-index.php?page=Kudzu

Quote:

Those using triptans and verapamil are advised that kudzu could interact with these medicines as kudzu affects both serotonin and calcium levels in the blood. There have been two reports of adverse effects in people who combined kudzu with either verapamil or a triptan.

My suggestion is to go off the Kudzu if you're going to be on verap. Don't take any chances.

mel

Title: Re: Verapamil/Kudzu Question
Post by nani on Sep 16^th, 2006, 11:06pm

From tester experience, it seems the bigger issue may be having your blood pressure drop too low. Both are calcuim channel blockers, and even though kudzu is more gentle, if your BP is already low, you could have problems. I was taking 480 verap when I started kudzu, but my BP was already high. Be cautious.
pain free wishes, nani

Title: Re: Verapamil/Kudzu Question
Post by JohnWF on Sep 17^th, 2006, 11:44am

I appreciate your taking the time to reply. Although my bood preassure is high anyway, I think I may be over medicating. I just don't want the pain!

Title: Re: Verapamil/Kudzu Question
Post by TxBasslady on Sep 19^th, 2006, 1:52pm

Yep, it might be best to take one...or the other, instead of both.

I took the Kudzu for 9 months. It helped me more than anything I've ever taken. I tapered off of it last December....and got 02.

02 is all I use now. I have to say, the Kudzu really changed my CH.

Even today, any hits I get are shorter in duration...and less in intensity than before Kudzu.

Good luck to you, John. Let us know how you're doing.

Jean