Davis has used lidocaine effectively for his migraines. Side effects are mild and include unpleasant taste, burning sensations, and facial numbness. Verapamil - This calcium channel blocker works well for certain sufferers but must be taken for weeks or even months to produce results. Both Diamond and Kudrow are quick to point out that every headache sufferer is unique and that different therapies work better for some than others. Both the NHF and the Take Charge Program recommend that health providers and migraine sufferers educate themselves about treatment availability.
Some research supports acupuncture as an effective means of relieving migraine.
TENS therapy takes 30 minutes daily, can be self-administered at home, and unlike many pharmacological therapies, has no side effects. Cromwell also takes feverfew, an herb recommended as most effective in dried leaf form, that is touted as a natural remedy. Aromatherapy is also showing some promise. Migraine sufferers reported less pain after smelling pleasant odors, but got no relief from scents they found unlikable. Botulinum toxin, or Botox, a poison which temporarily weakens or paralyzes muscles and has been used for years to reduce facial wrinkles, was accidentally discovered as a vascular headache remedy when cosmetic patients reported suffering fewer migraines as well.