Posted by gary (208.133.220.139) on January 07, 2000 at 19:47:30:
This is for folks having a hard time getting thru to their docs and or insurance co's-
It is from the Journal of the American Medical Association website.
Sorry, I had this on disk, and the URL disappeared.
To get the site or full page with all the "labels" etc, just do a little surfing for< "JAMA"+"cluster headaches" >
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This reflects current medical knowledge. The information and recommendations are appropriate in most cases; however, for specific information concerning your migraine or other headache, consult your physician.
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this is the "OFFICIAL" AMA statement, and "should" be a winning argument with any USA doc or insurance co who is putting out the "can only use what is proven or conventionally approved" line
(not saying it's 100% right - just that it should be good ammo - using their own stuff to win the debate!!!)
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Treatment of Cluster Headaches
Drugs used to treat cluster headaches
These headaches are sometimes difficult to treat because many last only 20 to 30 minutes. Useful drugs include —
Ergotamine. This is especially effective for preventing attacks that occur at predictable times.
Oxygen inhalation. Breathing 100% oxygen through a face mask is most beneficial for people under 50 years old who have episodic cluster headaches.
Sumatriptan. The injectable form is effective treatment.
Dihydroergotamine. This drug is taken as an injection.
Drugs used to prevent cluster headaches
Most headache specialists focus on preventing cluster headaches by prescribing daily medications that reduce their frequency and severity. These drugs include —
Lithium. This is useful for both episodic and especially chronic cluster headaches.
Methysergide. An ergotamine-like drug that acts as a serotonin antagonist.
Corticosteroids. Prednisone is an example of these agents.
Calcium channel blockers. Verapamil is thought to be effective for cluster headaches.
Antiseizure medications. Divalproex sodium, only in adults.
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