Headache
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Comparative Study
The misdiagnosis of cluster headache: a nonclinic, population-based, Internet survey.
We conducted the first nonclinic, Internet-based survey of cluster headache to investigate this population with regard to diagnostic problems encountered, effective and ineffective medications, problems obtaining medications through third-party payers, and symptoms as they relate to International Headache Society criteria. ⋯ The most alarming finding was the delay in diagnosing cluster headache in this population--an average of 6.6 years. The selection of medications demonstrated to be successful in the treatment of clusters proved effective for the majority of this population. Many respondents reported being denied some of these effective medications by their physicians or third-party payers. Using International Headache Society criteria for cluster headache, 87% of the respondents should have been correctly diagnosed by the first physician seen.
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Clinical Trial
Intravenous valproate sodium (depacon) aborts migraine rapidly: a preliminary report.
This study was designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of intravenous valproate in the treatment of acute migraine attacks. ⋯ Intravenous valproate appears to be safe and effective for the acute treatment of migraine. Double-blind, placebo-controlled studies to further investigate the use of this agent in acute treatment of migraine attacks are warranted.