Which of the following treatments is considered an abortive therapy for this patient’s underlying condition?

A 23-year-old female presents to your clinic complaining of intermittent throbbing headaches that usually last for several hours and are made worse by the presence of light. She endorses occasional nausea without vomiting during the most severe episodes. Physical examination is unrevealing, and she has no significant past medical history.

Which of the following treatments is considered an abortive therapy for this patient’s underlying condition?

A. Sumatriptan

B. Gabapentin

C. Amitriptyline

D. Propranolol

E. Diltiazam

View Answer

Answer: A

Explanation:

Correct: A. Migraine headaches typically affect females more often than males, and patients most frequently present in their early 20s. Classic symptoms of migraine include throbbing headaches lasting between 2C24 hours in duration, with triggers such as red wine, fasting, stress, and menses. Primary prevention is aimed at the identification and avoidance of triggers. Over the counter NSAIDS can be used if symptoms persist. Failing this, PRN abortive therapy is indicated, including the triptans (e.g. C sumatriptan) and metoclopramide. Choice B C Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant that is considered to be a second-line, prophylactic treatment for recurrent migraine headaches. Its utility is limited by its lengthy side effect profile. Choice C C Amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, can also be utilized for migraine prophylaxis.

However, it will not abort a migraine currently in progress, and extensive side effects limit its use. Choices D + E C Propranolol and diltiazam are beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers, respectively. As with the anticonvulsants and tricyclic antidepressants, these are considered migraine prophylaxis and will not interrupt a migraine once it has begun.