Botox for Headaches and Migraines

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Botox was originally licensed in the 1970s for treating blepharospasm and nystagmus (both eye disorders) in children, but in recent years it has become renowned for its cosmetic properties. However, it is also growing in popularity due to the recent discoveries of additional medical benefits. This includes the use of Botox in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches and migraines.

The link between the use of Botox and a reduction in headaches first became apparent when people undertaking treatment for the reduction of frown lines reported that they were suffering from migraines and headaches far less frequently until the effects of treatment have worn off. There is no definitive answer as to why Botox has this effect. Botox blocks the release of the neurotransmitter in a localised site, thus preventing the nerves from relaying brain signals to the muscle and causing temporary paralysis. Therefore one theory is that the relaxing of the muscle reduces the tension that can trigger headaches in some sufferers. Another hypothesis is that the toxin prevents the transmission of pain signals to the brain, reducing the severity of the headache.

Over a period of time, the nerves will form new connections and start relaying brain signals once more, meaning the effects of Botox treatment are only temporary. The duration of these effects varies between individuals, but if you receive Botox for the purpose of reducing headaches or migraines you can expect the results to last for between 3 and 6 months.

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Botox is considered to be a relatively safe procedure. Unwanted side effects such as soreness around the injection site, slight bruising and nausea affect less than 10 percent of patients. If your doctor has recommended Botox as a treatment to diminish the frequency of your headaches you should also be made aware that in a very small number of cases drooping of the brow can occur. This happens when the administered dose of Botox is too high. Thankfully, this condition is only temporary and the problem should correct itself as the effects of the Botox wear off over the course of several weeks.

The FDA (the Food and Drug Administration) have not yet granted approval to using Botox to treat headaches and migraines as the studies have not yet met the meticulous criteria set by the organization. However, many doctors believe it has several advantages over alternative treatments. One study showing that over 80 percent of sufferers experienced a great improvement after receiving Botox injections. Many of the participants in this study and not had any success with alternative medical treatments such as oral medication or nasal sprays. The effects of Botox are also more long lived, with patients only needing treatment every 3 to 6 months.

The downside of Botox as a treatment for headaches and migraines is that it is costly. Patients can expect to pay $350 to $1000 per treatment and very few insurance policies cover Botox injections when they are used for this purpose.

As the long term effects of using Botox as a preventative measure for headaches and migraines is not yet know, it is extremely important to discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor before proceeding with treatment.