Lisinopril headache
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Lisinopril and Headache: Efficacy and Safety in Migraine Prophylaxis
Introduction to Lisinopril and Migraine
Lisinopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, is primarily used to treat hypertension and heart failure. However, recent studies have explored its potential in migraine prophylaxis, aiming to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Efficacy of Lisinopril in Migraine Prophylaxis
Reduction in Migraine Frequency and Severity
Multiple studies have demonstrated that lisinopril significantly reduces the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, patients treated with lisinopril experienced a 20% reduction in hours with headache, a 17% reduction in days with headache, and a 21% reduction in days with migraine compared to placebo . Another study corroborated these findings, showing a 16% reduction in hours with headache, a 16% reduction in days with headache, and a 23% reduction in days with migraine . Additionally, a comparative study found that lisinopril reduced migraine episodes by 84% and headache severity by 43% compared to propranolol .
Low-Dose Efficacy
Even at lower doses, lisinopril has shown effectiveness in reducing migraine frequency. An open-label study with a daily dose of 5 mg lisinopril reported a significant reduction in migraine attack frequency and a decrease in the use of acute migraine medications .
Safety and Adverse Effects of Lisinopril
Common Adverse Effects
While lisinopril is generally well-tolerated, some adverse effects have been reported. The most common side effects include cough, dizziness, and headache. In a large postmarketing surveillance study, 2.1% of patients reported headaches as an adverse effect . Another study noted that 4% of patients experienced cough, which led to discontinuation in some cases .
Rare but Serious Adverse Effects
A rare but serious side effect associated with lisinopril is the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). A case study reported a patient developing SIADH, characterized by severe hyponatremia, which resolved after discontinuing lisinopril .
Conclusion
Lisinopril has shown promising results as a prophylactic treatment for migraines, significantly reducing the frequency and severity of attacks. However, while generally well-tolerated, it can cause adverse effects such as cough and, in rare cases, SIADH. These findings suggest that lisinopril could be a valuable option for migraine prophylaxis, but patients should be monitored for potential side effects.
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