Posted by Paul Kwo on November 12, 1998 at 12:51:34:
In Reply to: Re: Candida connection posted by John Olinyk on November 12, 1998 at 11:48:11:
There is no correct way to treat Candida for cluster headaches. However, here is what I would consider doing though you must discuss this with your family physician and/or neurologist. You could start with a four-week course of Lamisil or a two to three-week course of Diflucan. Both medicines are relatively safe, though there are rare reports of liver toxicity and other side effects with these medications. The side effect profile of Lamisil is probably better than Diflucan. Your physician may want to check blood work on you during treatment. Another option is to try nystatin tablets 500,000 units to 1 million units (1-2 tablets) 4 times per day for 4-6 weeks. The advantage of this therapy is that decided that the side effect profile of nystatin is extremely benign, and it is not expensive. The downside is that you must take 8 tablets today, but to escape the pain, this is a reasonable compromise for anyone who has cluster headaches.
I would suggest that you talk this over with your physician and see if you can come up with a plan that you and your physician feel is appropriate if you wish to try this. Again, any of these medications can be tried, but only under the supervision of your doctor to ensure safety.
Unfortunately, there are no published reports documenting the efficacy of these therapies for cluster headaches, just personal testimonials. However, I will say again that I have been quite impressed with my own response, and I hope others have the same luck that I have had.