Onabotulin toxin injections
Targeted therapy for reducing the intensity and frequency of headaches
Chronic migraines have a significant impact on quality of life, ability to work and emotional balance. One of the most effective solutions to modern treatments is injections of onabotulin toxin A (Botox®), which have an effect aimed at reducing migraine attacks.
This treatment is indicated in patients with chronic migraines with a headache of at least 15 days per month, of which at least 8 days meet migraine criteria.
Šī terapija ir indicēta pacientiem ar hronisku migrēnu – ja galvassāpes ir vismaz 15 dienas mēnesī, no kurām vismaz 8 dienas atbilst migrēnas kritērijiem.
How do injections work?
Onabotulin toxin blocks transmission of pain signals in peripheral nerves that contribute to migraine. This reduces the flow of pain impulses and reduces muscle strain in certain areas of the head and neck.
Method and course of injection
The procedure is carried out with fine needles when the preparation is administered to certain areas:
- 7 injections in the forehead
- 4 injections per area of the temples
- 10 injections in the back of the head
- 6 injections in muscles of the shoulder band
A total of 31 injections, taking about 15-30 minutes. After the procedure, your doctor asks you to wait 10-15 minutes to assess your feeling.
Before the procedure
To assess the indications and to monitor the effectiveness of the procedure:
- Fill in the headache diary at least 1 month before the procedure
- Talk to your neurologist about optimising medication
- Discuss all issues including possible side effects of onabotulin toxin injections
After the procedure
- Avoid intense exercise during the day
- Do not rub or pressure injection sites
- Continue to fill in the headache diary to evaluate the effectiveness of injections
- Repeated injections are usually given after 12 weeks
Results and expected effects
- First injection effect usually occurs within 10-14 days
- Maximum effect assessment recommended after 2-3 treatment courses
- The number, duration and severity of migraine attacks and the need for painkillers are significantly reduced in many patients
Possible side effects
As with any treatment method, onabotulin toxin injections may have adverse reactions:
- Mild headache or muscle weakness in the injection area
- Itching, rash, discomfort
- Rare: excessive muscle weakness, difficulty breathing or talking, allergic reaction (e.g. facial oedema, urticaria)
If any unusual reactions occur, contact your doctor immediately or call an ambulance if necessary.
How do you know if this treatment is right for you?
This method is recommended by the neurologist after careful evaluation if:
- Headache is common (≥ 15 days per month)
- At least 8 of them match migraine symptoms
- Other treatments have not had the desired effect or are unbearable
Do not allow migraines to determine your daily rhythm.
With professional diagnosis and personalised therapy, migraines can be controllable!