The role of magnesium in migraine pathogenesis. Potential use of magnesium compounds in prevention and treatment of migraine headaches

Abstract

One of the major functions of magnesium is the maintenance of proper electric potential of neurons. Pathological conditions associated with systemic magnesium deficiencies may be associated with disturbance of numerous neurophysiological processes. These may include neuron function, transmission of nerve impulses, neuromuscular transmission, muscle contraction and vasomotor reflex. Therefore, magnesium deficiencies, particularly those associated with hypomagnesemia, are a source of problems for neurologists. Migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders. Despite many years of research, pathophysiology of migraine has not been elucidated. The predominant opinion is that the onset of migraine headaches is associated with cerebral vascular spasms. Based on the available knowledge of biological functions of magnesium, at least several feasible mechanisms for prevention or reduction of the intensity of migraine attacks by magnesium ions have been proposed. The goal of this review is to summarize the literature reports on magnesium in the pathogenesis of migraine and to identify the potential uses for magnesium compounds in prevention and treatment of migraine headaches.

A new hypothesis linking oxytocin to menstrual migraine

“…Mg 2+ deficiency may contribute to migraine attacks in multiple ways including regulation of calcium ion influx, serotonin receptor activity, platelet aggregation, cerebrovascular tone, and release of nitric oxide and inflammatory mediators such as neuropeptides, substance P, and cytokines. 14,34 These broad neurovascular, neuropeptide, and transmitter actions of Mg 2+ clearly overlap with known migraine pathogenesis. 14,34,35 Nevertheless, a direct link between Mg 2+ deficiency and MRM is yet to be demonstrated.…”

“…14,34 These broad neurovascular, neuropeptide, and transmitter actions of Mg 2+ clearly overlap with known migraine pathogenesis. 14,34,35 Nevertheless, a direct link between Mg 2+ deficiency and MRM is yet to be demonstrated. Herein, we suggest that Mg 2+ deficiency is a critical factor in modulating OT/ OTR signaling that leads to an increased likelihood of MRM.…”

“…Mg 2+ deficiency may contribute to migraine attacks in multiple ways including regulation of calcium ion influx, serotonin receptor activity, platelet aggregation, cerebrovascular tone, and release of nitric oxide and inflammatory mediators such as neuropeptides, substance P, and cytokines 14,34 14,34,35 …”

Is there an association between a plant-based eating pattern and clinical findings of a migraine headache?

“…Previous documents reported that migraine patients may have magnesium deficiency and also low brain magnesium during attacks ( 61 , 62 ). In addition, previous studies proposed the reduction of prostacyclin-dependent vasodilation, blocking of N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, and inhibition of serotonin-dependent vascular spasm as possible mechanisms of magnesium in the context of migraine prevention ( 63 ).…”

Effects of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on clinical, quality of life and mental health outcomes in women with migraine: a randomised controlled trial

“…These alterations have been proposed to decrease neurons' resting potential and reduce their threshold for action potentials (46) . Conversely, Mg has been proposed to prevent migraine by blocking N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, inhibiting serotonin-dependent vascular spasm, and reducing prostacyclindependent vasodilation (47) . The DASH diet contains no to low amounts of processed meats, refined grains, and fried foods, all of which have been associated with higher migraine complications or frequency (48) .…”