Prophylaxis of Migraine with Anionic Polyelectrolytes

Abstract

SYNOPSIS In previous studies on patients with migraine headaches we found that 50% had reduced concentrations of basophils and lymphocytes. Treatment with inhalations of heparin often restored these blood indices to normal and was accompanied by a reduction in migraine headache, We report here data on the long term treatment of 37 migraine patients with inhalations of heparin and with an oral semi‐synthetic heparinoid, Pentosan Polysulfate (PNP). 27 patients responded with a mean improvement in migraine index of 79% and as a group showed significant increases in basophil, total lymphocyte, and in particular T‐cell concentrations. Ten patients whose migraine headaches were related to their menstrual cycles were relatively unresponsive to heparin or PNP. They had a general leukopenia, but basophils were within normal range.

Sulphated Sugar Alpha-Cyclodextrin Sulphate, a Uniquely Potent Anti-HIV Agent, Also Exhibits Marked Synergism with AZT, and Lymphoproliferative Activity

“…PPS, like OS, is a negatively charged polysaccharide but has a lower molecular weight (4000 for PPS; >6000 for OS). PPS has been reported to increase the number of circulating T-cells in a subset of migraine patients who have low basophil and J-cell concentration (Thonnard-Neuman and Neckers 1981;Thonnard-Neuman and Bigelow, 1988). PPS haã lso been shown to have low anticoagulant activity (Soria et aI., 1980;Vinazzer et al, 1980;Baba et al, 1988).…”