Posted by DocGreg (24.131.169.145) on July 29, 1999 at 00:59:24:
In Reply to: docgreg posted by duane on July 29, 1999 at 00:06:45:
D,
There is some sort of chemical imbalance in the brain that causes, or is a result of cluster headaches. Most suspect that serotonin is the primary culprit. Many antidepr. medications work on the serotonin pathways...but most have not been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of clusters. I believe that this is because increases serotonin everywhere is not what is needed, rather just in specific locations. Imitrex, for example, is a serotonin analogue, but it only works at certain sites (5ht1d primarily, some at 5ht1b).
Lithium is very effective in clusters, however. It is used in the treatment of bipolar depression, but it also affects serotonin in the hypothalamus...part of the brain that regulates cycles.
Tricyclic antidepr. drugs are effective in the treatment of migraines, but only occasionally work in the treatment of clusters. It increases the levels of several types of brain neurotransmitters...and has slightly higher side effects (dry mouth mainly), but would be worth a try if others fail.
SSRIs (such as prozac) have not been shown to be very effective. They prevent the reuptake of serotonin in the brain.
Don't know if anyone has found the link between beer and clusters...but it is certainly there. May be from the vasodilitation effects of beer...might be some of the preservatives used.
Good luck
G