Dr Giovanni Brunelli treats chronic migraine with botulinum toxin at his practice in Brescia: small injections about every 12 weeks, to make attacks less frequent and less intense.
Besides its use in aesthetic medicine, botulinum toxin has been used for years in neurology. One of its recognised indications is the prevention of chronic migraine in adults.
What is chronic migraine
Migraine is considered chronic when headache is present on at least 15 days a month, with migraine features on at least 8 of them. It is a very disabling condition that affects work and daily life.
Who is it for
The treatment is reserved for adults diagnosed with chronic migraine who have not benefited from preventive medication or cannot tolerate it. The diagnosis must be made by a neurologist or a headache centre.
How it is done
Small injections are given at precise points on the forehead, temples, back of the head and neck, following a standardised protocol: 31 sites, which the doctor may increase up to 39. The session takes a few minutes, is performed in the outpatient clinic and requires no anaesthesia. It is repeated about every 12 weeks.
How it works
The toxin reduces the transmission of pain signals from the peripheral nerves to the central nervous system, making attacks less frequent and less intense.
Results
The effect is not immediate and is assessed over the first treatments. If there is no improvement after three cycles, treatment is usually stopped.
Which product
A specific botulinum toxin type A product is authorised for chronic migraine, different from the formulations used for aesthetic purposes.
Dr Brunelli performs the treatment at his practice in Brescia. For information or to book a consultation: +39 030 390790 or the contact form.