How Botox Works for Migraines: Here's What The Scientists Say

If you suffer from chronic headaches or migraine attacks, you're probably constantly looking for new and effective options. You may have heard that Botox can help treat chronic migraines, but you're unsure how it works or if it's right for you.

In this blog post, we'll explore how Botox, also known as botulinum toxin, can address chronic migraine headaches and how effective treatment for chronic migraine pain is, according to scientists. Keep reading to learn more!

What exactly is a migraine?

Migraines are a type of headache that can cause intense throbbing or a pulsing sensation in one area of the head. Typically accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound, migraine headaches can last from 4 to 72 hours. The head pain can be so severe that it interferes with your daily activities.

How effective is Botox for migraines?

Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) is most commonly known for aesthetic and cosmetic purposes. However, it can also treat several medical conditions, including migraine treatment. But just how effective is Botox for migraine headaches? According to The National Center for Biotechnology Information, in 2010, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the prophylactic use of Botox as an approved treatment for chronic migraine due to its effectiveness in migraine pain transmission and reduction in headache frequency and severity.   

The American Academy of Neurology guidelines states that Botox can be an effective option and treatment for patients with chronic migraines. Specifically, the study looked at the effects of Botox in people who had chronic migraines (15 or more headache days per month). The results showed that those who received Botox injections experienced a significant reduction in migraine days and less severe symptoms than those who did not receive the treatment. In addition, the participants who received Botox also reported a better quality of life.

So, according to this study, Botox can therapeutically treat migraines. However, as with all medical treatments, it is essential to speak to your doctor first to see if it is the right option.

How does Botox work for migraines?

The most common way to use Botox to treat migraine headaches is by injecting it into the head and neck muscles which helps to relax the muscles and reduce the pain of migraines.

Botox shots can also be injected into the scalp, which can help relieve migraine headaches by reducing muscle contractions and stopping neurotransmitters that carry pain signals to your brain.

What to expect during Botox treatment for migraines?

If you're considering Botox to treat chronic migraine, here's what you can expect during treatment.

First, your doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination. They'll also ask about your migraine symptoms and migraine frequency. This information will help your doctor determine if Botox is right for you.

Once your doctor determines Botox may help prevent migraine headaches and other symptoms, your doctor will inject small amounts of botulinum toxin into specific points on your head and neck. The injections usually take less than 15 minutes to complete. You may feel a slight sting when the needle enters your skin, but most patients report that the procedure is tolerable and generally not painful.

Are there side effects of Botox when treating migraines?

Yes, while Botox injections are generally safe, there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of before considering this treatment option. The most common side effects are headache, neck pain, and soreness or pain at the treatment site. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days.

In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as infection at the injection site, difficulty breathing, and the potential spread of the toxin to other areas of the body.

What to avoid after Botox treatment for migraines?

There are a few things that you should avoid doing after you have received Botox injections for chronic migraine.

First, you should not lie down for at least four hours after the injection to prevent the botulinum toxin from spreading to other parts of your body and causing unwanted side effects.

Second, you should avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area for at least 24 hours to prevent infection. And finally, you should avoid alcohol for 24 hours after the injection. Alcohol can increase bleeding and bruising at the injection site.

How often can you have Botox to treat migraine episodes?

The number of Botox treatments needed for migraine preventative therapy will depend on the severity and frequency of migraines and symptoms.

For example, if you suffer from chronic migraines (having more than 15 headache days per month), you may require more frequent treatments. Some people with chronic migraines receive Botox injections every 12 weeks, while others may only need to have Botox injections once or twice a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Botox cost for migraine preventive treatments?

Botox is a popular treatment for migraines and varies depending on the severity of symptoms and frequency of treatment. Botox costs for migraines range from $300 to $500 per session.

Many insurance companies will cover the cost of Botox for migraines, so it is worth checking with your insurance company or healthcare professional to see if they will cover the cost of your treatment.

Is Botox for migraines the same as cosmetic Botox?

The same active ingredient in Botox, onabotulinumtoxinA, is used for migraine prevention and cosmetic purposes. However, they are two distinct needs and treatment options. Therapeutic Botox is the use of Botox for migraine treatment and other conditions. In contrast, cosmetic Botox is used in aesthetics and beauty. Here's a more detailed explanation:

• Although both procedures use the same botulinum toxin type, the amount used for each is different. For example, Botox therapy for migraine treatment typically requires more treatments for migraine prevention and symptom relief, while Botox cosmetic procedures are needed less frequently.
• Botox therapy for migraines is injected into muscles that contribute to pain and discomfort in the head, scalp, and neck muscles to help prevent migraines. In contrast, cosmetic Botox stops muscle contractions in the face to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve the skin's appearance.
• The other significant difference is that Botox cosmetic injections are typically every 12 weeks when used to treat migraines, whereas cosmetic treatment is every three to six months.

How many units of Botox are normal for migraines?

The amount of Botox needed for migraines varies depending on the individual, the severity of the symptoms, and other factors. However, a study conducted in 2010 revealed that Botox injections for chronic migraine required 155 units, with a maximum amount of up to 195 units.

Final Thoughts

Botox is shown to prevent migraine attacks and is an FDA-approved effective treatment for chronic migraines. However, the number of doses required varies from person to person, so it’s essential to seek professional medical advice from your healthcare provider or headache specialist.

If you suffer from chronic migraines, contact our team at iThriveBeauty today for a free consultation.