Beta-blockers for migraine headaches
Examples
Generic Name Brand Name atenolol Tenormin metoprolol Lopressor, Toprol nadolol Corgard propranolol hydrochloride Inderal timolol maleate How It Works
Beta-blockers relax blood vessels. Although the cause of migraines is not well understood, it may have something to do with the blood vessels in the brain.
Why It Is Used
Beta-blockers are preventive medications that are used to prevent migraine headaches in some people who get them regularly.
How Well It Works
Propranolol and timolol have been proven to work to prevent migraines. There is some evidence that atenolol, metoprolol, and nadolol may help prevent migraines, but the evidence is not as strong as it is for propranolol and timolol.1
Side Effects
Side effects of beta-blockers include:
- Sleep problems and vivid dreams.
- Memory problems.
- Fatigue.
- Depression.
- Erection problems (impotence).
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Beta-blockers may require close monitoring if you have asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, or high cholesterol. Some beta-blockers may make symptoms of lung disease and asthma worse and may affect cholesterol levels as well as how the body responds to low blood sugar.
These medications are also used to treat high blood pressure.
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| Author: | Monica Rhodes | Last Updated: July 3, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology | |
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| Topic Contents | |
| Examples | |
| How It Works | |
| Why It Is Used | |
| How Well It Works | |
| Side Effects | |
| What To Think About | |
| References | |