Supplements are becoming popular as either sole migraine therapies or combined with migraine medications.
Studies suggest that some supplements may ease symptoms or decrease the risk of a migraine episode.
If these structures are damaged or malfunctioning, cells either work improperly or die.
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AHS and AAN provide ratings for treatments based on the level of supporting scientific evidence.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Side Effects
If your healthcare provider recommends riboflavin, it is generally well-tolerated.
Some people do develop diarrhea or excessive urination, but this is not common.
Also, riboflavin does turn your urine a yellow-orange color, so don’t be surprised when this happens.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Coenzyme Q10 for Migraines
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)is also found in the mitochondria of cells.
Studies concluded that CoQ10 reduced migraine frequency and duration (how long they lasted).
Like riboflavin, the CHS strongly recommended coenzyme Q10 for preventing migraines.
The AAN/AHS gave it a level C recommendation, meaning it’s “possibly effective.”
A dosage of 300 mg of Coenzyme Q10 daily has been effective in some studies.
No serious side effects of CoQ10 have been reported.
Mild side effects such as insomnia or digestive upsets may occur.
A magnesium deficiency does not usually cause symptoms.
However, early symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, nausea, or a loss of appetite.
They may recommend a magnesium supplement and/or a magnesium-rich diet if levels are low.
Like riboflavin and coenzyme Q10, the CHS strongly recommends taking magnesium as a supplement to prevent migraines.
However, the AAN/AHS gave magnesium a level B recommendation (“probably effective”) in migraine prevention.
Several types of magnesium exist, and some are better absorbed than others.
The AAN/AHS guidelines suggest 600 mg ofmagnesium citrateper day to prevent migraines.
Vitamin D for Migraines
The AAN/AHS guidelines do not recommend vitamin D for preventing episodic migraine.
However, research has found the benefits ofvitamin D supplementsin this regard.
Before taking supplements, talk to your healthcare provider.
However, toxicity is not likely at daily intakes below 10,000 IU in adults.
Melatonin is thought to help regulate neurotransmitters and nervous system pathways, including blood flow in the brain.
It may also provide pain relief.
Short-term use of melatonin supplements seems to be safe for most adults.
However, information on the long-term safety of supplementing with melatonin is lacking.
There may be a risk of allergic reactions to melatonin supplements.
Uncommon side effects included nervousness, nightmares, itchy skin, dry mouth, constipation, and hair loss.
It’s been deemed both an effective and well-tolerated alternative therapy.
These products have been tested and found not to containpyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are toxic to your liver.
AHS and AAN have not revised their guidelines regarding the liver toxicity findings.
Some healthcare providers may not recommend butterbur until societies like the AHS update their recommendations.
A dosage of 75 mg twice daily has been shown to be effective.
Other side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, increased bleeding tendency, and rash.
Extensive research showed a small difference in the frequency of migraine headaches compared to the placebo groups.
An optimal dose of feverfew has not been established.
Studies have used 50 to 100 mg daily, standardized to contain 0.2% to 0.35% parthenolides.
No serious side effects have been reported.
However, side effects can include nausea, digestive problems, and bloating.
People who are sensitive to ragweed and related plants may experience allergic reactions to feverfew.
If taken while pregnant feverfew may affect uterine contractions, so it is not recommended.
If fresh feverfew leaves are chewed, sores and irritation of the mouth may occur.
A recommended dosage ofzinc supplementshas not been established.
The recommended dietary allowance is 11 mg for adult males and 8 mg for adult females.
During pregnancy, 11 mg of zinc is recommended, and 12 mg while breastfeeding.
Consumption of foods containing zinc is unlikely to cause side effects.
The review compared EPA/DHA and other current FDA-approved or guideline-recommended treatments for migraines.
Talk with your healthcare provider beforetaking high dosages of omega-3 fatty acids.
High dosages of omega-3 supplements might reduce immune function due to their anti-inflammatory effects and increase bleeding risk.
They may also increase the risk of atrial fibrillation.
While research is limited, some studies show supplements may ease symptoms or decrease the risk of an episode.
just talk with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements to ensure they are safe for you.
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