Treatment of childhood headaches

Abstract

Migraine and tension-type headaches are two of the most common types of primary headache disorders in children. Migraine is a primary central nervous system disorder characterized by triggered or spontaneous episodes of activation of trigemino-vascular complex, neurogenic inflammation around vessels and meninges, and stimulation of the peripheral and central pain pathways of the trigemino-cervical complex. The triptans, by their selective agonistic action on 5-HT1B/1D receptors, are very effective in the treatment of migraine pain and associated symptoms. Early studies on the safety and efficacy of triptans in the management of childhood migraine show encouraging results. We propose a stratified-care model for the management of migraine in children, and discuss pharmacotherapy based on the pathophysiologic mechanisms of migraine pain. Management of tension-type headaches requires comprehensive medical and psychologic evaluation and an individualized approach for a successful outcome.

Benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood: A review of the literature

“…While ample treatment for childhood migraine can be found through drugs and behavioural therapy Benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood (4,5,24,37,52,53), nonpharmacological or behavioural treatments (54) are absent. Additionally, little is known about health care utilization in childhood migraine (55).…”

Is the Generally Held View That Intravenous Dihydroergotamine Is Effective in Migraine Based on Wrong “General Consensus” of One Trial? A Critical Review of the Trial and Subsequent Quotations

“…According to a search on Google Scholar on April 26, 2015, the study by Callaham and Raskin has been cited 153 times. However, a control with hand counting resulted in 150 citations, 111 of which were retrieved and included , . Three citations were ordered from the library system, but were not retrieved.…”

Efficacy and Tolerability of Intravenous Valproic Acid in Acute Adolescent Migraine

“…With the recent publication of revised criteria for diagnosing headache, perhaps previously undefined subtypes of headaches may now create opportunity for new treatment strategies 7 . The current drug armamentarium for childhood migraine includes nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory agents, acetaminophen, serotonin analogs (triptans), ergot preparations, tricyclics, and various neuroleptic agents including valproate (VPA) 4–5,8–9 …”