Background: Intractable migraine presents a significant treatment challenge to both patient and physician. Most attacks are treatable or self-limiting, but occasionally they may continue for extended periods regardless of treatment.
Objective: To determine the efficacy of naratriptan 2.5 mg twice daily for the treatment of intractable migraine.
Methods: We reviewed 24 patients treated with naratriptan twice daily for an intractable migraine attack. Patients were permitted to take prophylactic medication if such treatment had been effective in the past.
Results: Nineteen patients (79%) improved. Twelve patients showed excellent response with cessation of pain and associated symptoms, 7 patients partially responded with lessening of pain and cessation of associated symptoms, and 5 patients were nonresponsive.
Conclusion: Short-term daily administration of naratriptan may be effective in terminating status migrainosus.