Alternative medicine in migraine : Is it ever a good alternative?
Abstract
Although the data are relatively few, and sometimes weak, there is some evidence that so-called natural remedies may be effective at preventing or aborting migraine attacks. Magnesium supplementation is an effective prophylactic regimen in some patients, most often in those with aura or perimenstrual migraine. The main clinical problem associated with magnesium use is diarrhea. Two small randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that riboflavin may reduce the frequency of migraine attacks in some patients; side effects may include diarrhea and polyuria. Although there have been only 2 very small studies of coenzyme Q10 for migraine prevention, both showed efficacy. Coenzyme Q10 appears to have a favorable side-effect profile, although it has been associated with a cutaneous reaction. The efficacy of feverfew for migraine prophylaxis has not been established, nor has its long-term safety. Two RCTs have demonstrated that Petadolex, an extract made from butterbur root by a German phytopharmaceutical company, is superior to placebo for migraine prevention. Because Petadolex is monitored by German regulatory authorities and has had significant postmarketing exposure and data collection, its safety is reasonably ensured.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.
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