Efficacy and Safety of Oral Propranolol versus Sodium Valproate in Prophylaxis of Migraine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Migraine is a common neurological disorder, and prophylactic medication is often used to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. Sodium valproate and propranolol are two commonly used medications for migraine prophylaxis, but their comparative efficacy and safety remain debated. The present review aimed at systematically evaluating the available evidence comparing the efficacy and safety of sodium valproate versus propranolol in the prophylaxis of common migraine headaches. A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials comparing sodium valproate and propranolol for migraine prophylaxis. The primary outcomes were a reduction in headache frequency, severity, and duration. Secondary outcomes included adverse events. Six studies were included in the meta-analysis, involving a total of 383 participants. Overall, the results suggest that there is no significant difference between sodium valproate and propranolol in terms of their efficacy in reducing headache frequency, severity, duration, or achieving total cessation of attacks. This finding holds true for both pediatric and adult patients. Based on the available evidence, this meta-analysis suggests that sodium valproate and propranolol are equally effective in the prophylaxis of migraine headaches. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and to investigate the long-term effects of these medications.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 383 participants or records.
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