The treatment of migraine with propranolol

Abstract

Nineteen patients with refractory migraine were treated with prophylactic propranolol, 80 mg. per day, and placebo in a six-month double-blind study. Fifteen of 19 patients responded better to propranolol than to placebo, 2 (10.5%) were improved by active drug and placebo, and the remaining 2 were unresponsive to both substances. The authors conclude that propranolol prophylaxis is a safe and effective therapy for migraine. Familiarity with the pharmacologic effects of propranolol and careful selection of patients are essential. The exact mechanisms of action of propranolol in migraine are unknown. However, the authors speculate on the possible modes of action in view of the current understanding of the properties of propranolol. © 1972 American Academy of Neurology.