Migraine treatment in pregnancy and breastfeeding
In the June 2010 edition of the
Canadian Family Physician is a Clinical Review titled
Safety of triptans for migraine headaches during pregnancy and breastfeeding by Silvia Duong, Pina Bozzo, Hedvig Nordeng, and Adrienne Einarson that begins:
" Migraine headache is a common neurologic condition that affects many
women of childbearing age. In Canada, approximately 15% of women between 25 and 54 years of age
suffer from migraines. Observational studies have indicated that, as levels of estrogen increase, 55%
to 90% of mothers experience decreases in both the frequency and severity of migraines during their
second and third trimesters. However, 25% of women with a history of migraines experience
minimal changes in frequency or might even experience an increase in attacks. To date, there are no
reports that indicate the occurrence of migraines increases the risk of spontaneous abortion, other
pregnancy-related complications, or major malformations. However, inadequate treatment of
migraines might have a serious effect on maternal well-being (eg, sleep deprivation, poor nutrition,
dehydration, increased stress, and depression).
" The accumulated evidence from sumatriptan’s pregnancy registry and other studies suggest that this drug is a safe therapeutic option for the treatment of migraine attacks in pregnant women. More studies are needed to confirm the safety of the other triptans in pregnancy. However, evidence to date is reassuring. In addition, sumatriptan is considered compatible with breastfeeding, as minimal amounts are excreted into milk. Women who suffer from these migraine headaches, which often render them unable to carry out tasks of daily living, can use triptans during pregnancy and breastfeeding without fear of harming their unborn children or infants. "
For the full review, click here.
Canadian Family Physician 56 (6): 537-539 © 2010 by The College of Family Physicians of Canada
Safety of triptans for migraine headaches during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Silvia Duong, Pina Bozzo, Hedvig Nordeng, and Adrienne Einarson.
Category: N. Neurological, W. Pregnancy, Family Planning. Keywords: migraine, treatment, sumatriptan, triptans, pregnancy, breastfeeding, clinical review.
Synopsis edited by Dr Paul Schaefer, Toledo, Ohio Posted on Global Family Doctor 20 July 2010
