Nutraceutical preparations in childhood migraine prophylaxis: effects on headache outcomes including disability and behaviour

Neurol Sci. 2012 Dec;33(6):1365-8. doi: 10.1007/s10072-012-1019-8. Epub 2012 Mar 23.

Abstract

Migraine is common in children, but few specific drugs are available. We performed an open-label comparison of effects of two nutraceutical preparations (ginkgolide B vs. Griffonia simplicifolia extract) on outcomes in 374 school-age children (mean 10.7 years) with migraine without aura. Half of them received ginkgolide B; and half, Griffonia simplicifolia. Both preparations were given orally twice a day for 6 months. Patients kept a headache diary. Outcomes at the beginning and end of treatment were compared. Both preparations reduced all outcome measures after 6 months of treatment. However, reductions in headache frequency, duration and intensity, PedMIDAS score and behavioural reactions to headache were significantly greater in the ginkgolide B group. Both nutraceutical treatments appear promising in paediatric migraine without aura, particularly because of their lack of side effects. However, the ginkgolide B preparation was significantly more effective in the medium-term (6 months).

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child Behavior / psychology*
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Female
  • Ginkgolides / administration & dosage*
  • Griffonia
  • Humans
  • Lactones / administration & dosage*
  • Male
  • Migraine Disorders / epidemiology
  • Migraine Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Migraine Disorders / psychology*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Plant Lectins / administration & dosage*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Ginkgolides
  • Griffonia simplicifolia lectins
  • Lactones
  • Plant Lectins
  • ginkgolide B