Why all migraine patients should be treated with magnesium

Heavy metal and trace element alterations in patients during a migraine attack

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the heavy metal and trace element (HMTE) profile in patients with migraine (PwM) and to compare it to that of healthy individuals without migraine.

BACKGROUND

Migraine is a universal disease that affects more than 10% of the world's population; however, its pathophysiology is still obscure.

METHODS

A total of 100 participants were included in this prospective matched case-control study (50 PwM during acute attack and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls). The study was conducted in the university hospital in Yozgat, Turkey, where the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry system was used to measure the HMTE profile. The calibration curve was created with 11 points for heavy metals (arsenic [As], cadmium [Cd], cobalt [Co], lead [Pb], mercury [Hg], nickel [Ni], and tin [Sn]) and trace elements (antimony [Sb], chromium [Cr], copper [Cu], iron [Fe], magnesium [Mg], manganese [Mn], molybdenum [Mo], and zinc [Zn]).

RESULTS

The median age was 27 (23-37) years, and the female/male ratio was 37/13 for both groups. The PwM group had significantly higher As, Co, Pb, and Ni levels among the heavy metals (p = 0.033, 0.017, 0.022, and 0.021, respectively). Also, PwM had significantly lower Cr, Mg, and Zn levels among the trace elements (p = 0.007, 0.024, and < 0.001, respectively). The only trace element that was elevated in the PwM group was Mn (p = 0.001). The PwM and control groups did not differ in terms of Cd, Sn, Sb, Cu, Fe, and Mo (p = 0.165, 0.997, 0.195, 0.408, 0.440, and 0.252, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Some HMTE parameters are altered in PwM, which may provide additional insight into understanding migraine etiology.

The Impact of Chronic Magnesium Deficiency on Excitable Tissues-Translational Aspects

Neuromuscular excitability is a vital body function, and Mg2+ is an essential regulatory cation for the function of excitable membranes. Loss of Mg2+ homeostasis disturbs fluxes of other cations across cell membranes, leading to pathophysiological electrogenesis, which can eventually cause vital threat to the patient. Chronic subclinical Mg2+ deficiency is an increasingly prevalent condition in the general population. It is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular, respiratory and neurological conditions and an increased mortality. Magnesium favours bronchodilation (by antagonizing Ca2+ channels on airway smooth muscle and inhibiting the release of endogenous bronchoconstrictors). Magnesium exerts antihypertensive effects by reducing peripheral vascular resistance (increasing endothelial NO and PgI2 release and inhibiting Ca2+ influx into vascular smooth muscle). Magnesium deficiency disturbs heart impulse generation and propagation by prolonging cell depolarization (due to Na+/K+ pump and Kir channel dysfunction) and dysregulating cardiac gap junctions, causing arrhythmias, while prolonged diastolic Ca2+ release (through leaky RyRs) disturbs cardiac excitation-contraction coupling, compromising diastolic relaxation and systolic contraction. In the brain, Mg2+ regulates the function of ion channels and neurotransmitters (blocks voltage-gated Ca2+ channel-mediated transmitter release, antagonizes NMDARs, activates GABAARs, suppresses nAChR ion current and modulates gap junction channels) and blocks ACh release at neuromuscular junctions. Magnesium exerts multiple therapeutic neuroactive effects (antiepileptic, antimigraine, analgesic, neuroprotective, antidepressant, anxiolytic, etc.). This review focuses on the effects of Mg2+ on excitable tissues in health and disease. As a natural membrane stabilizer, Mg2+ opposes the development of many conditions of hyperexcitability. Its beneficial recompensation and supplementation help treat hyperexcitability and should therefore be considered wherever needed.

Synergistic action of sumatriptan delivery and targeting magnesium deficiency using green, pH-responsive MgO nanoparticles synthesized from mahua flower extracts

Magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles were green synthesized using mahua (Madhuca longifolia) flower extracts by solvent evaporation and characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The drug loading of sumatriptan succinate (SS), an anti-migraine drug, was optimized using MINITAB's response surface methodology (RSM) Box Behnken model (BBD) model. The investigation of drug adsorption and release kinetics was further conducted using the optimized set obtained through RSM. The optimized parameters consisted of 23.53 mg of nanoparticles, a loading time of 6 h, and a pH of 9, yielding the experimental drug loading efficiency ~47%. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the potential of utilizing these green synthesized MgO nanoparticles for a dual purpose. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the viability of utilizing MgO nanoparticles synthesized through green route for the delivery of an anti-migraine medication. Additionally, the study aims to examine the degradation of these nanoparticles at physiological pH levels, with the intention of potentially enhancing cellular absorption. The investigation involved the assessment of drug release kinetics using various mathematical models, with a focus on the release of SS from MgO nanoparticles. This evaluation was conducted at different pH levels, specifically pH 5, 7, and 9. It has been found that the SS release increases as pH decreases, which is attributed to the dissolution of MgO nanoparticles, which therefore exhibits varied behavior at different pHs. The confirmation of the degradation of the green synthesized MgO nanoparticles was achieved through the execution of a degradation study, followed by the analysis of the obtained samples using FESEM and EDS. At neutral, the release data obtained adhered to the Higuchi model, which suggests that the release of the drug is based on diffusion. This finding is particularly advantageous for the controlled release of an anti-migraine drug. The results obtained from the study indicate that MgO nanoparticles have the potential to serve as a significant component in drug delivery systems, specifically as drug carriers. Attachment of SS over MgO nanoparticles to form SS loaded MgO nanoparticles and its possible working mechanism.

Association of laxatives use with incident dementia and modifying effect of genetic susceptibility: a population-based cohort study with propensity score matching

BACKGROUND

Constipation was associated with incidence of dementia and cognitive decline. Laxatives are the mainstay of constipation management and are commonly used among older populations for both treatment and prevention of constipation. However, the association between use of laxatives and incident dementia, and whether laxatives use may modify the effect of genetic predisposition on dementia remains unclear.

METHODS

We applied 1:3 propensity score matching to balance the baseline characteristics of the laxative users versus non-users and to reduce potential confounders using multi-variates adjusted Cox hazards regression models. We categorized genetic risk into three groups (low, middle, and high) through a genetic risk score of common genetic variants. Information on laxatives use was assessed at baseline and categories into four varieties, including bulk forming laxatives, softeners and emollients, osmotic laxatives, and stimulant laxatives.

RESULTS

Of 486,994 participants, there were 14,422 laxatives users in UK Biobank. After propensity score matching, participants with use of laxatives (n = 14,422) and matched non-laxative (n = 43,266) exposed individuals were enrolled. Over follow-up to 15 years, there were 1377 participants developed dementia (539 for Alzheimer's disease, and 343 for vascular dementia). The use of laxatives had greater risk of dementia (HR, 1.72; 95% CI:1.54-1.92), Alzheimer's disease (HR, 1.36; 95% CI: 1.13-1.63), and vascular dementia (HR, 1.53; 95% CI: 1.23-1.92). Compared to non-laxative exposed participants, those with use of softeners and emollients drugs, stimulant laxatives, and osmotic laxatives were associated with 96% (HR, 1.96; 95 CI: 1.23-3.12; P = 0.005), 80% (HR, 1.80; 95% CI: 1.37-2.37; P < 0.001), and 107% (HR, 2.07; 95% CI: 1.47-2.92; P < 0.001) higher risk of developed incident dementia, respectively. In joint effect analysis, compared to participants with low/middle genetic susceptibility and non-laxatives use, the HR (95% CIs) of dementia was 4.10 (3.49-4.81) for those with high genetic susceptibility plus use of laxatives. There was an additive interaction between laxatives use and genetic susceptibility on dementia (RERI: 0.736, 95% CI: 0.127 to 1.246; AP: 0.180, 95% CI: 0.047 to 0.312).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of laxatives was associated with higher risk of dementia and modify the effect of genetic susceptibility on dementia. Our findings suggested that attention should be paid to the relationship between laxatives use and dementia, especially in people at high genetic susceptibility.

Role of ATP in migraine mechanisms: focus on P2X3 receptors

Migraine is a major health burden worldwide with complex pathophysiology and multifarious underlying mechanisms. One poorly understood issue concerns the early steps in the generation of migraine pain. To elucidate the basic process of migraine pain further, it seems useful to consider key molecular players that may operate synergistically to evoke headache. While the neuropeptide CGRP is an important contributor, we propose that extracellular ATP (that generally plays a powerful nociceptive role) is also a major component of migraine headache, acting in concert with CGRP to stimulate trigeminal nociceptive neurons. The aim of the present focused review is to highlight the role of ATP activating its P2X3 membrane receptors selectively expressed by sensory neurons including their nerve fiber terminals in the meninges. Specifically, we present data on the homeostasis of ATP and related purines in the trigeminovascular system and in the CNS; the basic properties of ATP signalling at peripheral and central nerve terminals; the characteristics of P2X3 and related receptors in trigeminal neurons; the critical speed and persistence of P2X3 receptor activity; their cohabitation at the so-called meningeal neuro-immune synapse; the identity of certain endogenous agents cooperating with ATP to induce neuronal sensitization in the trigeminal sensory system; the role of P2X3 receptors in familial type migraine; the current state of P2X3 receptor antagonists and their pharmacological perspectives in migraine. It is proposed that the unique kinetic properties of P2X3 receptors activated by ATP offer an interesting translational value to stimulate future studies for innovative treatments of migraine pain.

Evaluation of the Effects of Oral Magnesium Sachet on the Prevention of Spinal Anesthesia-Induced Headache After Cesarean Section: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) is a common complication of spinal anesthesia. It often goes away after a few days but may be more severe in some patients and persists for weeks. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of oral magnesium on the prevention of PDPH after cesarean section for the first time. Methods: In this double-blind, randomized clinical trial, 100 candidates for elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia were randomly divided into 2 groups: (i) the intervention group that received 300 mg of oral magnesium powder and (ii) the control group that received starch powder. The frequency and severity of headache and amount of analgesic consumption in both groups were measured 1, 2, and 3 days after cesarean section. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 at 95% CI. Results: The frequency of PDPH 1, 2, and 3 days after surgery was 8% vs 24% (P = 0.029), 10% vs 26% (P = 0.039), and 12% vs 18% (P = 0.401) in the intervention and control groups, respectively. The mean and SD of pain severity was 0.52 ± 1.83 vs 1.5 ± 2.84 (P = 0.03) on the first day, 0.70 ± 2.19 vs 1.58 ± 2.86 (P = 0.05) on the second day, and 0.82 ± 2.32 vs 1.18 ± 2.62 on the third day (P = 0.43) in the intervention and control groups, respectively. Although more patients in the control group received rescue analgesia, no significant difference was seen between the 2 study groups. Conclusions: In women candidates for cesarean section, oral administration of 300 mg magnesium 2 hours before surgery significantly reduces the frequency and severity of PDPH, but its impact on reducing analgesic consumption is not significant.

Testing the Role of Glutamate NMDA Receptors in Peripheral Trigeminal Nociception Implicated in Migraine Pain

The pro-nociceptive role of glutamate in the CNS in migraine pathophysiology is well established. Glutamate, released from trigeminal afferents, activates second order nociceptive neurons in the brainstem. However, the function of peripheral glutamate receptors in the trigeminovascular system suggested as the origin site for migraine pain, is less known. In the current project, we used calcium imaging and patch clamp recordings from trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons, immunolabelling, CGRP assay and direct electrophysiological recordings from rat meningeal afferents to investigate the role of glutamate in trigeminal nociception. Glutamate, aspartate, and, to a lesser extent, NMDA under free-magnesium conditions, evoked calcium transients in a fraction of isolated TG neurons, indicating functional expression of NMDA receptors. The fraction of NMDA sensitive neurons was increased by the migraine mediator CGRP. NMDA also activated slowly desensitizing currents in 37% of TG neurons. However, neither glutamate nor NMDA changed the level of extracellular CGRP. TG neurons expressed both GluN2A and GluN2B subunits of NMDA receptors. In addition, after removal of magnesium, NMDA activated persistent spiking activity in a fraction of trigeminal nerve fibers in meninges. Thus, glutamate activates NMDA receptors in somas of TG neurons and their meningeal nerve terminals in magnesium-dependent manner. These findings suggest that peripherally released glutamate can promote excitation of meningeal afferents implicated in generation of migraine pain in conditions of inherited or acquired reduced magnesium blockage of NMDA channels and support the usage of magnesium supplements in migraine.

Comprehensive management of adults with chronic migraine: Clinical practice guidelines in Mexico

Introduction:

Migraine is a polygenic multifactorial disorder with a neuronal initiation of a cascade of neurochemical processes leading to incapacitating headaches. Headaches are generally unilateral, throbbing, 4–72 h in duration, and associated with nausea, vomiting, photophobia, and sonophobia. Chronic migraine (CM) is the presence of a headache at least 15 days per month for ≥3 months and has a high global impact on health and economy, and therapeutic guidelines are lacking.

Methods:

Using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations system, we conducted a search in MEDLINE and Cochrane to investigate the current evidence and generate recommendations of clinical practice on the identification of risk factors and treatment of CM in adults.

Results:

We recommend avoiding overmedication of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); ergotamine; caffeine; opioids; barbiturates; and initiating individualized prophylactic treatment with topiramate eptinezumab, galcanezumab, erenumab, fremanezumab, or botulinum toxin. We highlight the necessity of managing comorbidities initially. In the acute management, we recommend NSAIDs, triptans, lasmiditan, and gepants alone or with metoclopramide if nausea or vomiting. Non-pharmacological measures include neurostimulation.

Conclusions:

We have identified the risk factors and treatments available for the management of CM based on a grading system, which facilitates selection for individualized management.

Dietary magnesium and migraine in adults: A cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2004

BACKGROUND

Clinical trials have demonstrated magnesium supplements to be effective for prophylactic treatment of migraine. Dietary magnesium intake of many Americans is known to be below nutritional recommendations, but typical magnesium intake from dietary sources in adults with migraine has not previously been evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to quantify dietary and total (diet + supplement) magnesium consumption of adults with migraine or severe headache in the United States, and to investigate the relationship between magnesium consumption levels and prevalence of migraine or severe headache.

METHODS

This analysis included cross-sectional data from 3626 participants, 20- to 50-years old in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2001 and 2004. Presence of migraine or severe headache in the past 3 months was determined by questionnaire. Individuals responding affirmatively were classified as having migraine, and individuals reporting not experiencing migraine or severe headache were classified as controls. Dietary magnesium intake was determined from a 24-hour recall interview, supplemental magnesium intake was determined from the dietary supplements interview, and total magnesium intake was the sum of dietary and supplement intake.

RESULTS

Mean dietary consumption of magnesium was below the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for both migraine (n = 905) and control groups (n = 2721). Attainment of the RDA through a combination of diet and supplements was associated with lower adjusted odds of migraine (odds ratio [OR] = 0.83, 95% confidence intervals [CIs] = 0.70, 0.99, p = 0.035). Magnesium consumption in the highest quartile (Q) was associated with lower odds of migraine than in the lowest Q for both dietary (OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.63, 0.92, p = 0.006) and total (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.62, 0.99, p = 0.042) magnesium intake in adjusted models.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest inadequate consumption of magnesium intake is associated with migraine in U.S. adults ages 20-50. Further prospective investigations are warranted to evaluate the role of dietary magnesium intake on migraine.

Possibility of magnesium supplementation for supportive treatment in patients with COVID-19

Magnesium as an enzymatic activator is essential for various physiological functions such as cell cycle, metabolic regulation, muscle contraction, and vasomotor tone. A growing body of evidence supports that magnesium supplementation (mainly magnesium sulfate and magnesium oxide) prevents or treats various types of disorders or diseases related to respiratory system, reproductive system, nervous system, digestive system, and cardiovascular system as well as kidney injury, diabetes and cancer. The ongoing pandemic coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) characterized by respiratory tract symptoms with different degrees of important organ and tissue damages has attracted global attention. Particularly, effective drugs are still lacking in the COVID-19 therapy. In this review, we find and summarize the effectiveness of magnesium supplementation on the disorders or diseases, and provide a reference to the possibility of magnesium supplementation for supportive treatment in patients with COVID-19.

[Magnesium: Relevance for general practitioners - a position paper of the Society for Magnesium Research e. V.]

Magnesium deficiency is to be expected in the population and particularly among risk groups. Magnesium deficiency can cause numerous symptoms, is per se pathological and thus requires treatment. Diagnostics is based on clinical symptoms in conjunction with anamnestic criteria and laboratory parameters. Insufficient magnesium supply is associated with an increased risk for many diseases, e. g. metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Magnesium deficiency often appears as comorbidity and may exacerbate diseases. Physicians should pay more attention to magnesium in order to avoid deficits as a cause for multiple symptoms and risk factor for diseases. Optimisation of magnesium status may make an important contribution to the prevention of diseases. Oral magnesium therapy is safe and cost effective.

The Role of Magnesium in Pathophysiology and Migraine Treatment

Migraine is one of the most common recurrent types of headache and is the seventh cause of disability. This neurological disorder is characterized by having pain in head and other various symptoms such as nausea, emesis, photophobia, phonophobia, and sometimes visual sensory disorders. Magnesium (Mg) is a necessary ion for human body and has a crucial role in health and life maintenance. One of the main roles of Mg is to conserve neurons electric potential. Therefore, magnesium deficiency can cause neurological complications. Migraine is usually related to low amounts of Mg in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Deficits in magnesium have significant role in the pathogenesis of migraine. Mg has been extensively used in migraine prophylaxis and treatment. This review summarizes the role of Mg in migraine pathogenesis and the potential utilizations of Mg in the prevention and treatment of migraine with the emphasis on transdermal magnesium delivery.

Fruits

Fruits come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and flavors. This chapter will cover selected fruits that are known to be healthy and highly nutritious. These fruits were chosen due to their common usage and availability. Since it is not possible to cover all health benefits or essential nutrients and important phytochemicals of the fruit composition, this chapter will focus on the key valuable constituents and their potential health effects.

Episodic primary migraine headache: supplementary prophylaxis with Pycnogenol® prevents attacks and controls oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

This registry study investigated the supplement Pycnogenol® on migraine headache attacks and oxidative stress in otherwise healthy subjects with migraine and moderate headache (MH).

METHODS

To manage MH, these subjects used only a few drugs (antiemetics, analgesics on demand) and lifestyle changes; only very occasionally they used other, more specific products such as triptans. Study groups: one group used only standard management (SM), basically, management on demand. Oral magnesium and riboflavin (vitamin B2) were used with lipoic acid as they are considered useful to improve MH. Another group used the supplement Pycnogenol® (150 mg/day for 8 weeks) in addition to SM. These two groups were compared to a third (non-parallel, observational) group using topiramate (50 mg/day). If needed, subjects were allowed to use rescue medications.

RESULTS

Forty-six subjects were included in the study. Twenty-two used the standard management and 24 were supplemented with Pycnogenol® in association with SM. In addition, 21 subjects were treated with topiramate. Safety with Pycnogenol® was very good. The two main management groups and the third non-parallel group had comparable baseline characteristics. The number of migraine attacks were significantly reduced during the observation period with Pycnogenol® (P<0.05) in comparison with SM. Supplementation was more effective in reducing the use of rescue medications (P<0.05) including analgesics compared to SM. At 8 weeks, the pain score was lower with Pycnogenol in comparison with SM (P<0.05). The working incapacity was significantly lower with Pycnogenol® than in the SM group (P<0.05). The number of migraine attacks was lower with topiramate compared to SM. Pain score, working incapacity and use of rescue medication were lower with topiramate than in SM. However, adverse effects with topiramate, included paresthesia, fatigue, dizziness and nausea even at low dosages complicated management. Some 50% of these side effects require a form of further treatment including medications. Oxidative stress: all included subjects had high oxidative stress at baseline. At 8 weeks, the level of plasma free radicals was significantly lowered with Pycnogenol® (P<0.05), but not in the SM or topiramate group.

CONCLUSIONS

Pycnogenol® used as prophylaxis appears to reduce pain and the number and severity of symptoms in MH in parallel with a reduction of oxidative stress.

Current Approach to Undifferentiated Headache Management in the Emergency Department

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss pharmacological interventions in the emergency department (ED) setting for the management of acute primary headache.

RECENT FINDINGS

Acute headache treatment in the ED has seen an expansion in terms of possible pharmacological interventions in recent years. After a thorough evaluation ruling out dangerous causes of headache, providers should take the patient's history, comorbidities, and prior therapy into consideration. Antidopaminergics have an established role in the management of acute, severe, headache with manageable side-effect profiles. However, recent studies suggest anesthetic and anti-epileptic drugs may play roles in headache treatment in the ED. Current literature also suggest steroids as a promising tool for emergency department clinicians combating the readmission of patients with recurrent headaches. Emergency medicine providers must be cognizant of these traditional and emerging therapies in order to optimize the care of headache patients.

Vitamins and Minerals for Migraine Prophylaxis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the findings of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the efficacy and safety of vitamins and minerals for migraine prophylaxis.

METHODS

We systematically searched bibliographic databases and relevant websites for parallel and crossover RCTs reporting efficacy and/or safety of vitamins and/or minerals for migraine prophylaxis. Our primary outcomes were migraine frequency (number of attacks) and duration (hours). Secondary outcomes were severity (intensity), days with migraine, and adverse events. Meta-analysis was conducted when analyzable data were available from at least two trials.

RESULTS

Eighteen placebo-controlled trials met our eligibility criteria. Only coenzyme Q10 and magnesium contributed to meta-analyses. In adults, compared with placebo, coenzyme Q10 did not significantly decrease migraine frequency (mean difference (MD) -0.44 (-2.14 to 1.26); I2 53%; 2 trials; 97 participants; moderate strength of the evidence), duration (MD -1.97 (-4.82 to 0.87); I2 0%; 2 trials; 97 participants; moderate strength of the evidence), or severity (ratio of means (RoM) -0.05 (-0.20 to 0.11); I2 0%; 2 trials; 97 participants). In adults, compared with placebo, magnesium did not significantly decrease migraine severity (RoM -0.17 (-0.36 to 0.02); I2 48%; 3 trials; 226 participants; low strength of the evidence). Meta-analysis of other vitamins and minerals, and other outcomes were not feasible due to a lack of sufficiently reported data.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on insufficient evidence, it is unknown if coenzyme Q10 and magnesium are effective for migraine prophylaxis in adults. High-quality, adequately powered RCTs are needed to fully evaluate the efficacy and safety of vitamins and minerals for migraine prophylaxis.

Experiences of an outpatient infusion center with intravenous magnesium therapy for status migrainosus

OBJECTIVES

Exploratory study to investigate the effectiveness of intravenous magnesium as an abortive for status migrainosus in an outpatient infusion center, and characterize the patients who benefit from the therapy.

PATIENTS & METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 234 migraine patients who received IV magnesium as a headache abortive, at the headache clinic of University of Southern California. Additional intramuscular (IM) injections for nausea (prochlorperazine, odansetron, metoclopramide) or for refractory pain (ketorolac, dexamethasone, sumatriptan, dihydroergotamine), were administered as necessary. Immediately before and after treatment, self-reported pain levels were recorded using an 11-point numeric pain rating scale (0-10).

RESULTS

Our patient sample has a mean age of 44 years and was predominantly female (79%). 36 (19%) had migraine with aura. Overall, pain score decreased from 5.46±2.39 to 3.56 ± 2.75 (P < 0.001) after magnesium infusion. One hundred twenty-seven (54%) patients had clinically significant pain reduction, as defined by pain decrease ≥ 30%. One hundred and four patients (44%) received IV magnesium and did not require additional intramuscular (IM) medications for pain. In patients who did not receive additional IM medications for pain, pain score decreased from 4.76 ± 2.41 to 2.95 ± 2.70 (p < 0.001), and 61 out of 104 (59%) experienced ≥ 30% pain reduction. Patients with less severe pain tended to have a better response than patients with more severe pain, as patients with ≥30% pain reduction had a significantly lower pre-treatment pain score (p = 0.018).

CONCLUSION

For a subset of patients with status migrainosus, IV magnesium therapy results in clinically significant pain relief without the need for intramuscular pain medications. Therefore, IV magnesium may be useful as a cost-effective first-line parental therapy for status migrainosus, especially for patients who initially present with lower pain intensity.

Diagnosing and managing migraine in children and young people

This article gives an overview of migraine in children. It outlines the epidemiology of the condition and describes presentation with headache and other symptoms and linked conditions. It aims to raise awareness of the diagnosis of migraine and its impact on children and young people, their families and school life. The author also describes methods of diagnosis and management, and the importance of recognising and of avoiding medication overuse.

Low magnesium diet alters distribution of macroelements and trace elements in tissues and organs of female rats

The aim of the present study was to assess whether dietary magnesium deficiency can alter distribution of macroelements and trace elements in different organs and tissues. Experiments were carried out on 12 adult female Wistar rats, which were fed either a diet with low Mg content (≤20mgkg^-1 of diet) (LMgD) or a diet with daily recommended Mg content (≈500mgkg^-1) as control group (CG) for 70 days. On the 70th day of the experiment heart, aorta, femoral skeletal muscle, forebrain, cerebellum, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, ovaries, uterus, liver, kidneys, and spleen were taken for analysis of mineral content. Concentrations of Fe and Ca were measured by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry, and levels of Na, K, Mg, Co, Cu, Zn, Ni, Se, I were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. On the 70th day, LMgD led to significant reduction of Mg level in red blood cells, plasma, aorta, uterus and thyroid gland compared to CG as well as resulted in significant decrease of Mg/Ca ratio in kidneys, spleen and ovaries. Contrary to this, an increase of Mg/Ca ratio was found in cerebellum of LMgD group. Significant decrease of K concentration was shown in aorta of LMgD animals compared to CG whereas myocardial K concentration was increased in LMgD group. Na level was two-fold higher in skeletal muscles of rats that received LMgD in comparison to CG (p=0.006). Increased concentrations of Fe in ovaries and uterus were found in LMgD. Mg restriction did not affect Zn concentration in any of tasted tissues. Se level was higher in spleen and lower in uterus of LMgD animals compared to CG. MgD was accompanied by increased level of Co in skeletal muscles and decreased its level in kidneys and uterus. LMgD feeding was associated with decreased concentrations of Ni in heart, thyroid gland, spleen, uterus and Co in heart, aorta, liver, kidneys, spleen and ovaries. The changes of Mg, K, Co content were accompanied by dramatic (10-fold) decrease of I concentration in aorta of LMgD animals. LMgD causes decrease of I content in ovaries and increase of I level in uterus vs CG. Thus, distribution of macroelements (Ca, Na, K) was weakly affected by Mg restriction that led to the most evident alterations of Co and Ni tissue levels. Moreover, mineral balance of uterus seems to be the most susceptible to low Mg intake. Hypomagnesaemia resulted in significant changes of 5 studied trace elements (Fe, Se, Cu, Ni and Co).

Magnesium in pregnancy

Magnesium deficiency is prevalent in women of childbearing age in both developing and developed countries. The need for magnesium increases during pregnancy, and the majority of pregnant women likely do not meet this increased need. Magnesium deficiency or insufficiency during pregnancy may pose a health risk for both the mother and the newborn, with implications that may extend into adulthood of the offspring. The measurement of serum magnesium is the most widely used method for determining magnesium levels, but it has significant limitations that have both hindered the assessment of deficiency and affected the reliability of studies in pregnant women. Thus far, limited studies have suggested links between magnesium inadequacy and certain conditions in pregnancy associated with high mortality and morbidity, such as gestational diabetes, preterm labor, preeclampsia, and small for gestational age or intrauterine growth restriction. This review provides recommendations for further study and improved testing using measurement of red cell magnesium. Pregnant women should be counseled to increase their intake of magnesium-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, beans, and leafy greens and/or to supplement with magnesium at a safe level.

Nutraceuticals in Migraine: A Summary of Existing Guidelines for Use

BACKGROUND

The use of nutraceuticals or food/herbal products for health benefits is expanding in adults with migraine as they seek relief from pain in an effective and tolerable manner not always afforded by current conventional pharmacologic therapies. Guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology/American Headache Society, Canadian Headache Society, and European Federation of Neurological Societies have discussed nutraceuticals in varying degrees of detail with at times conflicting recommendations.

CONCLUSION

This review serves to provide a summary of existing guidelines for the use of certain nutraceuticals including riboflavin, coenzyme Q10, magnesium, butterbur, feverfew, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The review will also discuss the regulation of nutraceuticals in North America and the current controversy regarding butterbur and its safety.

Dietary and Lifestyle Changes in the Treatment of a 23-Year-Old Female Patient With Migraine

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this case report is to describe the chiropractic management of a patient with atypical migraine headache.

CLINICAL FEATURES

A 23-year-old woman experienced migraines for 3 months. She had no previous history of migraines and was unresponsive to pharmaceutical and musculoskeletal therapies. The migraine headaches could not be classified according to the common categories associated with migraines. She had a change in diet due to severe gastroesophageal reflux causing her to reduce or avoid consuming foods. She also had a history of smoking and alcohol consumption.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME

Dietary and lifestyle changes were recommended in conjunction with the administration of a multivitamin, magnesium oxide, and Ulmus rubra. Her migraine headaches improved with the resolution of her gastroesophageal reflux symptoms.

CONCLUSION

This patient with atypical migraines and a history of poor dietary and lifestyle choices improved using nutritional changes and supplementing with a multivitamin and magnesium oxide.

Magnesium in man: implications for health and disease

Magnesium (Mg(2+)) is an essential ion to the human body, playing an instrumental role in supporting and sustaining health and life. As the second most abundant intracellular cation after potassium, it is involved in over 600 enzymatic reactions including energy metabolism and protein synthesis. Although Mg(2+) availability has been proven to be disturbed during several clinical situations, serum Mg(2+) values are not generally determined in patients. This review aims to provide an overview of the function of Mg(2+) in human health and disease. In short, Mg(2+) plays an important physiological role particularly in the brain, heart, and skeletal muscles. Moreover, Mg(2+) supplementation has been shown to be beneficial in treatment of, among others, preeclampsia, migraine, depression, coronary artery disease, and asthma. Over the last decade, several hereditary forms of hypomagnesemia have been deciphered, including mutations in transient receptor potential melastatin type 6 (TRPM6), claudin 16, and cyclin M2 (CNNM2). Recently, mutations in Mg(2+) transporter 1 (MagT1) were linked to T-cell deficiency underlining the important role of Mg(2+) in cell viability. Moreover, hypomagnesemia can be the consequence of the use of certain types of drugs, such as diuretics, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, calcineurin inhibitors, and proton pump inhibitors. This review provides an extensive and comprehensive overview of Mg(2+) research over the last few decades, focusing on the regulation of Mg(2+) homeostasis in the intestine, kidney, and bone and disturbances which may result in hypomagnesemia.

An evidence-based review of oral magnesium supplementation in the preventive treatment of migraine

Background

Migraine is an incompletely understood, debilitating disorder that lacks a universally effective treatment. Magnesium participates in a variety of biochemical processes related to migraine pathophysiology, and a deficiency could contribute to migraine development.

Methods

A review of the literature from 1990 to the present on magnesium and migraine was conducted.

Review

The authors identified 16 studies aimed at magnesium status assessment in migraine, and four intervention trials assessing the efficacy of oral magnesium supplementation, independent of other therapies, in the prevention of migraine.

Conclusion

The strength of evidence supporting oral magnesium supplementation is limited at this time. With such limited evidence, a more advantageous alternative to magnesium supplementation, in patients willing to make lifestyle changes, may be to focus on increasing dietary magnesium intake.

Chiropractic management of a patient with persistent headache

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this case report is to describe chiropractic care of a patient with persistent headache treated using chiropractic manipulative therapy and adjunct treatments.

CLINICAL FEATURES

A 54-year-old multiparous woman had chronic debilitating headaches for 11 months. Previous care from a variety of specialties had brought no appreciable relief.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME

The patient was managed with chiropractic manipulative therapy, injections, and electromagnetic therapy. Five treatments over 6 weeks brought resolution of the headaches.

CONCLUSION

This patient with persistent headache responded favorably to a course of chiropractic and adjunctive care.

Desensitization properties of P2X3 receptors shaping pain signaling

ATP-gated P2X3 receptors are mostly expressed by nociceptive sensory neurons and participate in transduction of pain signals. P2X3 receptors show a combination of fast desensitization onset and slow recovery. Moreover, even low nanomolar agonist concentrations unable to evoke a response, can induce desensitization via a phenomenon called “high affinity desensitization.” We have also observed that recovery from desensitization is agonist-specific and can range from seconds to minutes. The recovery process displays unusually high temperature dependence. Likewise, recycling of P2X3 receptors in peri-membrane regions shows unexpectedly large temperature sensitivity. By applying kinetic modeling, we have previously shown that desensitization characteristics of P2X3 receptor are best explained with a cyclic model of receptor operation involving three agonist molecules binding a single receptor and that desensitization is primarily developing from the open receptor state. Mutagenesis experiments suggested that desensitization depends on a certain conformation of the ATP binding pocket and on the structure of the transmembrane domains forming the ion pore. Further molecular determinants of desensitization have been identified by mutating the intracellular N- and C-termini of P2X3 receptor. Unlike other P2X receptors, the P2X3 subtype is facilitated by extracellular calcium that acts via specific sites in the ectodomain neighboring the ATP binding pocket. Thus, substitution of serine275 in this region (called “left flipper”) converts the natural facilitation induced by extracellular calcium to receptor inhibition. Given their strategic location in nociceptive neurons and unique desensitization properties, P2X3 receptors represent an attractive target for development of new analgesic drugs via promotion of desensitization aimed at suppressing chronic pain.

Mitochondrial dysfunction in migraine

Migraine is the most frequent type of headache in children. In the 1980s, scientists first hypothesized a connection between migraine and mitochondrial (mt) disorders. More recent studies have suggested that at least some subtypes of migraine may be related to a mt defect. Different types of evidence support a relationship between mitochondria (mt) and migraine: (1) Biochemical evidence: Abnormal mt function translates into high intracellular penetration of Ca(2+), excessive production of free radicals, and deficient oxidative phosphorylation, which ultimately causes energy failure in neurons and astrocytes, thus triggering migraine mechanisms, including spreading depression. The mt markers of these events are low activity of superoxide dismutase, activation of cytochrome-c oxidase and nitric oxide, high levels of lactate and pyruvate, and low ratios of phosphocreatine-inorganic phosphate and N-acetylaspartate-choline. (2) Morphologic evidence: mt abnormalities have been shown in migraine sufferers, the most characteristic ones being direct observation in muscle biopsy of ragged red and cytochrome-c oxidase-negative fibers, accumulation of subsarcolemmal mt, and demonstration of giant mt with paracrystalline inclusions. (3) Genetic evidence: Recent studies have identified specific mutations responsible for migraine susceptibility. However, the investigation of the mtDNA mutations found in classic mt disorders (mt encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes, myoclonus epilepsy with ragged red fibers, Kearns-Sayre syndrome, and Leber hereditary optic neuropathy) has not demonstrated any association. Recently, 2 common mtDNA polymorphisms (16519C→T and 3010G→A) have been associated with pediatric cyclic vomiting syndrome and migraine. Also, POLG mutations (eg, p.T851 A, p.N468D, p.Y831C, p.G517V, and p.P163S) can cause disease through impaired replication of mtDNA, including migraine. Further studies to investigate the relationship between mtDNA and migraine will require very large sample sizes to obtain statistically significant results. (4) Therapeutic evidence: Several agents that have a positive effect on mt metabolism have shown to be effective in the treatment of migraines. The agents include riboflavin (B2), coenzyme Q10, magnesium, niacin, carnitine, topiramate, and lipoic acid. Further study is warranted to learn how mt interact with other factors to cause migraines. This will facilitate the development of new and more specific treatments that will reduce the frequency or severity or both of this disease.