Botox For Migraine
What is Botox?
Botox is a form of nerve toxin produced by the bacteria that causes botulism. When the botulinum toxin (Botox) is purified and used in tiny doses in specific areas, it temporarily reduces muscle spasms for approximately 3 months. It is commonly used to treat spasticity and in cosmetic surgery. It is now used in the treatment of migraine headache.
What Type of Headache Responds Best to Botox?
Botox is used to treat chronic migraines, which means headache on 15 or more days a month. It is not recommended for patients who experience fewer than 15 headache days a month.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox is injected around pain fibres that are involved in headaches. Botox enters the nerve endings around where it is injected and blocks the release of chemicals involved in pain transmission. This prevents activation of pain networks in the brain. Botox prevents migraine headaches before they start, but takes time to work.
What is Treatment Like?
The procedure will take about 20-30 minutes. At Atlas Pain Care, a very small needle that feels like a pinprick is used to inject small amounts of Botox into shallow muscles in the skin. Each treatment typically involves 20-30 injections in key areas of the head and neck. The most common side effect from the Botox shots is a sore neck. Using an ice pack can reduce the discomfort. You could see results 2 to 3 weeks after your first treatment and it can take up to six months to see the maximum benefit from Botox. In the meantime, you can continue your regular medications with no risk of a drug interaction. Botox is repeated only once every 12 weeks. Please read our FAQ section to know about the do's and dont's prior to and after the procedure.