Cluster Headache: Acute and Prophylactic Therapy

    Avi Ashkenazi, Todd J. Schwedt
    TLDR Sumatriptan injections, high-flow oxygen, and verapamil effectively treat cluster headaches.
    Cluster headaches (CH) were identified as the most severe primary headache syndrome, with effective acute treatments including sumatriptan injections and high-flow oxygen, which provided significant pain relief in 78% of patients. Verapamil was the preferred prophylactic treatment, improving symptoms in 70% of patients, while other options like lithium carbonate, topiramate, and corticosteroids were also used. Neurostimulation techniques emerged for refractory cases, reducing the need for surgery. The study highlighted the importance of patient education, lifestyle changes, and prompt treatment for managing CH.
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