Pink Pearl Girl's Migraine World

Love Beats Hate Blogging Event

2010-11-17T12:19:00.000-05:00

Bloggers are uniting today to spread the message about how LOVE in online communities triumphs over haters who attack marginalized populations.

For a list of people participating in this blog event go to Linky Tools. For more information check out Chronic Healing.com and Love Beats Hate (Facebook link).

Thoughts of the Day

2010-11-04T13:13:00.000-04:00

Picture courtesy of Laurie Avocado

If you think MEDICAL Marijuana has anything to do with south of the border drug cartels, dime bags of weed bought on the street, addiction or gateways drugs -You're wrong and you need to EDUCATE YOURSELF.

Ever wonder why someone using opioids such as Morphine, Demerol or Fentanyl would trade them for MEDICAL Marijuana in a heartbeat if it provided at least the same if not better pain relief?

Ask someone suffering a terminal disease or debilitating chronic pain if they'd use MEDICAL Marijuana if it meant they could be pain free for 10 minutes to do simple things (like standing at the sink washing dishes) you take for granted ever day.

Ask an MS patient with involuntary muscle spasms, an AIDS patient with Wasting Syndrome, or a Chemo patient suffering with severe nausea/vomiting if they think MEDICAL Marijuana has no proven or acceptable medical use.

Before you say anything about SMOKING MEDICAL Marijuana, check out the new delivery systems researchers come up with every day (i.e. Sativex).

And check your facts before you say MEDICAL Marijuana kills. According to FDA data, Marijuana was NOT reported as a primary cause of death at all between January 1,1997 to June 30, 2005.

Migraine Sufferers Have Lower Annual Incomes

2010-10-29T13:45:00.000-04:00

Results of The American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention study (AMPP) was presented at The 2010 European Headache and Migraine Trust International Congress (EHMTIC) on October 29, 2010. This study found those with Chronic Migraine (greater that or equal to 15 days per month) are more likely to have annual household incomes below $30,000 vs. those with Episodic Migraine (less than 15 days per month).

The AAMP is the largest Migraine study every conducted. Questionaires were mailed to 163,000 participants beginning in 2004 and 24,000 of them were followed annually through 2009. Income statistics were acquired from 6,927 participants – 373 Chronic Migraineurs and 6,554 with Episodic Migraines. The results show 38.3% of Chronic Migraineurs and 26.5% of Episodic Migraineurs had annual household incomes of less than $30,000.

To assist in determining Migraine and Headache impact on daily life, participants in 2009 used The Headache Impact Test (HIT-6). This test helps

measures the burden of headache in areas including work, school, social life and feeling such as fatigue, irritability and difficulty with concentration over the previous month.

Scores on this test range from 36-78. You can take this test online by visiting The Headache Impact Test (HIT-6). For a paper copy, and to see the questions click HERE,

Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Director of Behavioral Medicine at the Montefiore Headache Center in Bronx, NY, study co-investigator Dawn C. Buse, PhD said,

These results reinforce the fact that the impact of headache is most significant among persons with chronic migraine when compared to persons with episodic migraine. In addition, we find that headache impact is predicted by headache pain intensity, severity of associated symptoms, and the presence of depression.

Richard B. Lipton, MD, study co-investigator, Professor of Neurology at Einstein and Director of Montefiore adds,

...chronic migraine, its symptoms, and comorbidities including depression and anxiety are very treatable. (He) advises, “Persons living with chronic migraine should speak with a knowledgeable health care professional about available treatments.

A research grant to the National Headache Foundation from Ortho-McNeil Neurologics, Inc. funded the AMPP. Additional analysis were supported by Allergan, Inc.

Tylenol Stinks (AGAIN!)

2010-10-19T10:20:00.000-04:00

Johnson & Johnson's McNeil Consumer Healthcare, is recalling one lot (128,000 bottles) of Tylenol 8 Hour caplets in 50-count bottles because of a musty or moldy odor. This is thought to be caused by trace amounts of 2,4,6-tribromoanisole, a fungicide used to treat packing materials and wooden pallets. Consumers complained of stomach pain, nausea/vomiting and diarrhea after taking the pills.

This is the FIFTH (5^th) time Johnson &Johnson has recalled a nonprescription medication because of complaints of an unpleasant odor and their THIRTEENTH (13^th) product recall this year.

Click www.tylenol.com or call 1-888-222-6036 if you need instructions on receiving a refund. If you have medical concerns, contact your healthcare provider.

For more information see J&J Again Recalls Tylenol for Moldy Smell or Tylenol recall announced, 128,000 bottles of eight-hour caplets to be pulled off shelves.

Photo courtesy of Deborah Austin.

It's About Time: FDA Finally Approves Botox for Migraine Prevention

2010-10-18T10:09:00.001-04:00

Doctors have been using Botox for years to treat chronic Migraine even though it wasn't FDA approved for this disease. As of last Friday, the FDA finally approved it for chronic Migraine prevention. For those of you who have never tried it because of the cost should now have an easier time getting your health insurance to pay for this treatment.

Botox is a poison that's injected around the head to lessen future head pain. The FDA recommends injections every three months. It doesn't work for everyone but many people have had success with it. If you've never tried it, this might be something to consider.

For more information see FDA approves Botox as a Migraine preventive.

October 2010 Headache & Migraine Blog Carnival - Hobbies and Coping

2010-10-12T17:48:00.000-04:00

Check out October's edition of the Headache & Migraine Blog Carnival posted over at Diana Lee's site Somebody Heal Me. The theme for this edition is "How have your hobbies helped you cope with your Headache disorder?"

Don't know what a blog carnival is? A blog carnival is a collection of links to a variety of a blogs on a central topic. The Headache & Migraine Blog Carnival provides both Headache and Migraine Disease patients and people who blog about headache disorders with unique opportunities to share ideas on topics of particular interest and importance to us. Visit this month's carnival for a collection of informative entries on the role hobbies play in those who suffer with Headache disorders or other chronic illnesses.

Mom Finds Perfect Way To Communicate With Daughter About Suicide of Rutgers Student

2010-10-11T13:00:00.001-04:00

I rarely blog about something off topic, but today I'm making an exception. If you're a parent with a kid in high school or college, you may have found it really hard to talk to him/her about the Rutgers student "who committed suicide after his sexual encounter with a man in his dormitory room was secretly streamed online".

Vicky Bell found a perfect way to communicate her feelings with her college student daughter by writing her a letter. Please take a few minutes and read what Vicky so eloquently wrote in "Letter to my daughter (in the wake of senseless tragedy)".

Thanks for writing this beautiful letter, Vicki.

Having a Hobby Can Help You Cope With Migraine or Any Other Illness

2010-10-11T01:09:00.002-04:00

Like others in the same situation I'm in, I lose a lot of time to Migraine Disease and chronic illness. I call this my “downtime”. In addition to being unable to do anything, I used to spend much of this time wondering what I “woulda”, “coulda” and “shoulda” been doing. Just thinking about the dishes piled up in the sink or the grocery shopping that needed to be done drove me crazy.

Over time, I've learned how to manage my time better and incorporate simple things (such as online grocery shopping and bill paying) to free up time on my good days – my “uptime”. Because of this freed up time, I now have time for my hobby.

Wikipedia, says a hobby is:

an activity of interest that is undertaken for pleasure or relaxation, typically done during one's leisure time.

On the other hand, Urban Dictionary, says a hobby is:

Something you like enjoy doing until you decide making it your profession...

My definition of a hobby is a combination of both:

“an activity of interest that is undertaken for pleasure or relaxation, typically done during one's leisure time” you enjoy “doing until you decide making it your profession”.

If you're considering a hobby, here's some things to keep in mind...

A lot of people will tell you a hobby is a waste of time. IGNORE THEM.
A hobby is a good way to learn about something that you didn't know much about before or realize a passion or talent you didn't know you had.
A hobby can keep your mind active.
A hobby can help you express your creativity
Having a hobby is a good way to relax and reduce stress.
A hobby is a good networking tool – It's a good way to share common interests with others or learn from others with different interests.
Doing something fun can help reduce depression.
Some hobbies can reduce the affects of certain physical conditions such as improving strength, dexterity or range of motion.
A hobby can help manage your pain. The article Hobbies Help Arthritic Hands suggests you do the activity "immediately after you take your pain medication or at a time of day when you feel better..." The article offers other suggestions such as using heat treatment before the activity and taking frequent breaks to stretch.

My hobby just kinda happened. I have always enjoyed crocheting but the thought of myself sitting in a rocking chair, surrounded by balls of yarn, doing the granny thing making doilies and potholders drove me nuts. Fortunately I kept seeing things that inspired me. Everywhere I went, everything I did, flipping through magazines, on the internet, whatever, wherever...I'd see something and think, "that would make the most awesome afghan". Eventually I was able to block the rocking chair image out of my mind and dive in...

but, THIS AIN'T YOUR GRANNY'S CROCHET.

I make afghans using a technique called “Tunisian Crochet”. Many people consider this to be a cross between knitting and crochet. Unlike traditional crochet, one row of Tunisian is worked in two different passes. Loops are worked on the hook in the first pass and worked off the hook in the second. The work is never turned so the right side is always the facing side.

I prefer making my afghans using a special hook called a flexible afghan hook (Picture on left below). It looks like a regular crochet hook that has a cable on the end so that I can put a lot of loops on the hook. Other people use a very long hook with a stopper on the end . (Top hook in picture on right below. Bottom hook is a regular one.)

Here are some examples of what I do. My afghans use lots of color changes using a technique similar to Intarsia.

It doesn't matter what your hobby is; paint-by-number, making jewelery, collecting Beanie Babies or bird watching. If it helps you cope with your Headache disorder or other chronic illness, it's worth it.

And finally, to answer the question, “Do you sell those things?” The answer is NO. However I do give them away and I will consider a trade or barter. If you can come up with the idea for my next one, I will make it for you. This is not a joke, game or contest. It's simple, if I like your idea, IT'S YOURS. You can email me, leave me a comment here or contact me on Facebook. If you wish to send me a picture, that's fine too.

New Sunglasses May Help Migraine Sufferers

2010-10-07T11:50:00.000-04:00

Industrial Vision Corporation, a manufacturer with 30 years of experience, of ophthalmic and occupational lenses, has come out with a new sunglasses that may help Migraine sufferers. The sunglasses, developed by certified optometrists, designers AND Migraine sufferers, are called MigraShades.

MigraShades are darker than regular sunglasses. The lenses have internal filters to block UVA/UVB and horizontal light waves. Unlike regular sunglasses, these glasses filter blue light and reflective light and eliminate haze and erratic wave lengths.

The benefits of MigraShades are listed HERE and you can order a pair for $139 HERE.

More information can be found in the press release New MigraShades Sunglasses Provide Help For Migraine Sufferers.

School Information Migraine Packs for Students, Parents and Teachers

2010-05-07T10:21:00.001-04:00

Please forgive my absence. My computer blew last September and I'm just getting back to my online life.

Here's some information just in time for school exams. The Migraine Association of Ireland (MAI) has new downloadable School Information Packs for students (teens), parents and teachers. The MAI says:

The new Schools Information Pack aims to raise awareness of migraine and how it can affect children's schoolwork and their personal and family lives. The pack also arms parents and students with practical and reliable information about the condition, which will help reduce the significant impact it can have.

Below is the MAI's description of each Information Pack and the location of the download.

Students
The guide for students aims to inform and educate about migraine and also to encourage teenagers to take responsibility for managing their own condition. The booklet contains useful lifestyle tips on reducing the impact of migraine as well as features on famous migraineurs and managing migraine at exam time.
Click HERE for this download.

Parents
In this booklet we highlight the importance of having the condition diagnosed early, so that the effect it has on the child's life can be minimised. We also point out the main differences between migraine in children and adults. Although migraine runs in families, parents sometimes fail to recognise their child's migraine symptoms if they are different to their own.
Parents are of course, their child's immediate source of support. The booklet offers advice for parents in helping their child cope with their migraine attacks, while at the same time recommending that the child takes responsibility for managing their own condition.
Click HERE for this download.

Teachers
The teachers guide to migraine is a short explanation of the condition, how to recognise or even predict it in students and what to do if an attack occurs in the classroom. Because migraine can interfere with a students work throughout their school-life, we also offer advice which may help get the student back to their desk as soon as possible, without having to send the student home.

Migraine attacks can also be triggered by events related to school and its environment and these issues are also covered.
Click HERE for this download.

Wish Your Doctor Had A Migraine?

2009-09-02T14:00:00.004-04:00

Ever wish your doctor could experience a Migraine attack just so he/she knows what you're going through?

Richard E. Waltman, MD, family physician in Tacoma, Washington, and a member of Medical Economics' Editorial Advisory Board, says that he does not wish "terrible disease and suffering for all of my colleagues" but makes the following six suggestions to help doctors do a better job:

Every physician should have to wait for an hour,
Every physician should have a foley catheter inserted,
Every physician should go to an out-of-town emergency department at midnight,
Every physician should get a good case of the flu,
Every physician should have a scare, and
Every Physician should have a Migraine

Y'all have to read this: Why every physician should have a migraine

BRAVO Dr. Waltman!

Cindy McCain's Migraine Secret

2009-09-02T12:06:00.000-04:00

You may want to check this out...

Friday's issue of People magazine will contain an interview with Cindy McCain (wife of U.S. Senator and former GOP presidential candidate John McCain) about her struggle with severe Migraines.

McCain said when she first explained what her Migraine pain felt like to her husband, John, she described it with a word he would understand -- "torture". McCain says,

Being tied to a chair for four days. I can't imagine how unbearable that pain must have been, but yeah, I can, because a migraine may come close.

McCain is trying to raise awareness about Migraine Disease and will be addressing the International Headache Congress on Sept. 10 in Philadelphia.

For more information click Cindy McCain's Secret Struggle with Migraines.

CVS Offering Free Flu Shots for the Unemployed

2009-09-01T13:36:00.001-04:00

Good news if you are unemployed and need a flu shot...
Starting today, September 1, CVS Caremark is offering free flu shots for the unemployed.

Yesterday, CVS Caremark announced that they will be offering 100,000 free flu shots as part of a nationwide effort.

The program will include on-site flu clinics at One-Stop Career Center locations and distribution of vouchers for free flu shots at CVS/pharmacy or MinuteClinic...

Additionally, beginning September 15, CVS will hold more than 9,000 flu shot clinic events in select CVS/pharmacy stores. If you have health insurance, this vaccination may be covered.

To read about this program cllick here: CVS Caremark to offer free vaccines for unemployed

Free Migraine Medication for the Unemployed

2009-05-14T18:00:00.004-04:00

If you've lost your job this year (since January 1), are uninsured and have been using a Pfizer medication for at least 3 months, you may be eligible for Pfizer's FREE medicine program. Starting Thursday, you can call 866-706-2400 toll-free to sign up for this program. Starting July 1, you'll be able to apply online on the Pfizer Helpful Answers website. This site is available now and has a lot of information about this and other Pfizer aid programs.

If you've lost your job, you'll have to sign a statement confirming you are suffering financial hardship and provide a notice from your employer confirming your job loss. Pfizer is accepting applications through December 31 and will provide you with your medication until you get insurance again - up to 12 months.

This program consists of over 70 medications including antiseizure medications, antidepressants and heart medications, used to prevent Migraine. They also manufacture Relpax, the Triptan used to abort an acute Migraine attack as well as various other medications a Migraine sufferer uses.

For more information click HERE.

Dear Migraine Friends...

2009-05-01T12:35:00.010-04:00

Dear All My Well-Intentioned Friends,

Yes, I did receive the article you emailed me (all 47 of them) about how losing weight can "cure" my Migraines. I was so thrilled to receive it, that I wrote about it.

I want you to know, I was just as thrilled to receive the article, "The art of the bra", you emailed me about having the correct bra size and how it would help my Migraines.

How smart to think that this may be my Migraine "cure". Although I do have to say, there was no mention of the word "cure" in this article. It does say that wearing the wrong bra can be a health issue. It also says wearing the wrong size bra can cause neck, shoulder and/or back pain. So, this type of pain can trigger a headache that could possibly trigger a Migraine.

As always, I'm adding this information to my special folder (you know, the one with the cute little picture of a trashcan on it) that has all the other Migraine information you've sent. I don't know what I'd do without all the articles about losing weight, drinking Noni Juice, having surgery on my forehead muscle, having a hysterectomy, eliminating stress, getting more exercise, getting pregnant and the hundreds of other Migraine cures you've sent me.
Love,
Me

Migraine and Migraine-Related News from the AAN: American Academy of Neurology Meeting

2009-05-01T09:58:00.000-04:00

The AAN: American Academy of Neurology is currently holding their annual meeting. Although the meeting does not until tomorrow, May 2, here's news they have already released.

Preventive Drugs Reduce Severity of Menstrual Migraine
SEATTLE, April 29 -- Preventive eletriptan (Relpax) and sumatriptan (Imitrex) may reduce the severity and duration of menstrual migraine, researchers here said....
To read the entire article click HERE.

Stroke Risk Cut 65% in Patients Who Hit Major Risk Factor Targets
SEATTLE, April 29 -- Patients who meet guideline targets for "good" and "bad" cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure can expect a 65% reduction in stroke risk, according to research presented here....
To read the entire article click HERE.

Glutamate Receptor Inhibitors May Help Migraine
SEATTLE, April 30 -- Inhibition of glutamate receptors may play a role in migraine treatment, researchers here said...
To read the entire article click HERE.

Epilepsy Drug Not Effective for Chronic Headache
SEATTLE, April 30 -- The epilepsy drug levetiracetam (Keppra) does not appear to be effective for prevention of chronic daily headache, researchers said here...
To read the entire article click HERE.

How Much Would You Pay to Avoid Pain?

2009-04-24T10:08:00.004-04:00

Yes, this is creepy but interesting.

Researchers wanted to know how much money people were willing to pay to avoid pain and discomfort. So, they gave study participants cash and told them they could keep whatever they had left over.

Then they were electrocuted. Yes, I said ELECTROCUTED. The participants were given one pulse of electric shock and asked how much they would pay to avoid 15 more shocks.

After that, a computer program randomly determined what they would pay. If the computer picked more money than what the person was willing to pay, they got shocked again. If the computer selected a lower amount, the participant paid that amount so they wouldn't get shocked again.

This was repeated on each participant a number of times with different shock intensities.

The results of this study determined that participants were willing to pay more to avoid pain if it was "more intense compared to previous trials". Surprising (or maybe not) participants also based what they were willing to pay on how much money they were given vs. their overall wealth.

To read about this study click HERE.

Migraine Million Campaign This Mother's Day

2009-04-23T12:49:00.002-04:00

May 10th is Mother's Day. It's also the launch day of the National Headache Foundation’s Migraine Million campaign. This campaign is to:

...raise awareness about the genetic link associated with migraine and encourage people to talk to their moms during the holiday to uncover potential clues about their own headaches and ultimately get the care they need.

The Migraine Million campaign is asking for a $1 (or more) donation to show the woman/women (mom, sister, friend, etc.) in your life you care about her and her well being and you take her Headaches and Migraines seriously. In return for letting this person know she's "one in a million", you'll receive a card to email or download so that you can let her know you've made a donation in her honor.

Migraine Disease is genetic. The National Headache Foundation says if you have a relative with Migraine you have a 20% chance of having it too. If you have one parent with Migraine you have a 50% chance of having these attacks and if both your parents have Migraine, then you have a 75% of having them.

For more information click HERE.
To make a donation click HERE.

Electronic Headache and Migraine Diaries

2009-04-23T09:48:00.002-04:00

James at Headache and Migraine News needs your input about Electronic Headache and Migraine Diaries. Stop by his site and take the quick survey.

Managing Life with Migraine Teleconference

2009-04-23T09:40:00.002-04:00

On Sunday, April 26th, at 4 pm Eastern time, Megan Oltman of Free My Brain From Migraine Pain is hosting her second monthly Managing Life with Migraine Teleconference with Michael John Coleman, Co-Founder, President, and Executive Director of MAGNUM, the National Migraine Association. Participation is FREE but registration is required. Details and how to participate can be found HERE.

Chronic Pain Patients Experience Anxiety -- UH...REALLY?!?!

2009-04-22T11:25:00.003-04:00

A recent study of 125 patients seeking treatment for chronic pain analyzed the role of anxiety on everyday functioning and found:

...individuals with high levels of anxiety due to chronic pain exhibit more emotional distress and disability.

Do we really need a study to tell us this?!?!
To read about this study click HERE.

Please Help to Get Better Migraine Treatment

2009-02-06T20:54:00.024-05:00

The Alliance for Headache Disorders Advocacy (AHDA) is asking for our support for their second "Headache on the Hill" (HOH), to be held February 23 and 24, 2009. This HOH will be similar to the first one held in September, 2007 and is

...intended to bring headache clinical and research specialists and patient advocate leaders to Washington, DC to educate members of Congress and their staffs about the problem of NIH under-funding of headache research and to suggest remedies.

Last spring, emails, prompted by the AHDA, sent by us Migraineurs and our friends and family, to state Senators and House Members had a very positive impact and

...led to the adoption of the House and Senate report language that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is currently responding to.

You can help by signing up for AHDA "Action Alerts" emails. When the AHDA needs help they will send you an "Action Alert" and ask for your support by doing things such as contacting your state Senators and House Members. The AHDA provides a letter for you to use that is already written. If you'd like, you can personalize it. The email is automatically sent to your state representatives without you having to go to the trouble of looking up their contact information. Sending an email will take you less than 10 minutes.

I know you understand how important this is so please take a few minutes and sign up for "Action Alerts" now.

For more information please click HERE to go to this MyMigraineConnection article written by Teri Robert.

Click HERE to go to the AHDA's site.
To join the AHDA mailing list click HERE.

Topical NSAID Cream Being Tested in Clinical Trial

2008-12-19T22:00:00.003-05:00

Transdel Pharmaceuticals, Inc.'s topical NSAID cream, Ketotransdel® (a form of Ketoprofen), is currently being tested in a phase 3 clinical trial. Ketotransdel® uses the patented proprietary Transdel™ drug delivery system. This cream is for the treatment of acute pain and is applied directly to the skin. It has been shown to relieve inflammation and provide an analgesic effect.

All medications come with the risk of side-effects. Some of the (often dangerous) side-effects that are known to be associated with NSAID tablets are gastrointestinal, renal and cardiovascular problems. The use of this cream may minimize the risk of these side-effects. According to THIS Therapeutics Daily article:

...over one hundred thousand patients are hospitalized each year due to orally administered NSAID-related gastro-intestinal (GI) complications. That is because when one takes a pill, it passes from the GI tract into the bloodstream and organs, exposing one to cardiovascular, renal, and hepatic systemic effects.

Medications applied to the skin may still expose the bloodstream and organs to side-effects and complications. However, the exposure is much less than if used orally. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Medication Guide for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) provides additional information on this type of medication and it's side-effects.

If all goes well in the clinical trials, Ketotransdel® may be the first FDA-approved topical NSAID cream. To read the article on this click HERE. And click HERE for Transdel Pharmaceutical's product page.

Increase Risk of Migraine and Headache in Overweight People

2008-12-10T12:54:00.006-05:00

I just read this article, Obesity may raise headache risk and can't wait until everyone I know emails it to me. (Yeah, right.) If you're a Migraineur you know what I'm talking about. By the end of the day, you'll have 47 copies of this same thing.

This article cites a research study that examined the

...association between body mass index (BMI), the ratio between the weight range an individual falls into, and headache among men and women, 20 years of age or older, who participated in the 1999 to 2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

(You can calculate your BMI HERE.)

Before you send me this article, please read it again. The article doesn't say being overweight causes Migraine but says being fat (that's what us un-politically correct people call it) "may increase the likelihood" of Migraine or severe headaches.

And before you go around thinking that if you gain a few (or more) pounds you're going to start having Migraine attacks and/or severe headaches, read this part again:

An increased prevalence of headache may be associated with being underweight as well.

In other words, being skinny may also increase the likelihood of Migraine or severe headaches. However, there were only 152 (2%) skinny people out of the 7,601 study participants so this needs to be investigated further.

The article goes on to say that for those who are overweight:

...weight management might be a useful approach in headache management

So, to all 47 of you who are planning on emailing this article to me with a note that says losing weight will CURE my Migraines...please DON'T.

Migraine and Epilepsy Medication In Pregnant Women May Raise Autism Risk

2008-12-07T19:09:00.003-05:00

WebMD reports that a new study published in the journal Neurology shows women who take Valproate for Epilepsy, while pregnant, may increase the risk of having a child with Autism. Rebecca Bromley, a PhD student and one of the researchers at the University of Liverpool told WebMD:

British researchers looked at 632 children, almost half of whom were exposed to epilepsy drugs during gestation. Nine of the 632 have been diagnosed with autism, and one has shown symptoms of the disorder.

Although this study was limited to pregnant women who took this medication for Epilepsy, Valproate is also used to prevent Migraine and an abortive treatment for acute Migraine.

To read the article click HERE.

Not Just For Migraine Sufferers -- Angel Food Ministries

2008-12-06T15:55:00.001-05:00

I've helped a lot of people find specific resources to help with financial hardships from locating low or no cost medications to utility assistance programs that help cover the high cost of winter heating. Even though there are a lot of federal, state and private organizations that offer help, many times the help is not enough or someone doesn't qualify. Although this is not Migraine Disease specific or even health related, I'd like to share a wonderful program that is making a big difference in people's life. It's called Angel Food Ministries. Here's what their mission statement says:

Angel Food Ministries is a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing grocery relief and financial support to communities throughout the United States. The program began in 1994 with 34 families in Monroe, Georgia (between Atlanta and Athens), and has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of families every month across 35 states. Angel Food Ministries crosses denominational lines...

Here's how it works. If you live near a participating site (locate one HERE) you can order $75.00 (approximate retail value) worth of food for $30.00. This amount of food will feed a family of four for a week or one senior citizen for about a month. You can order more than one box and you can order additional specials with the purchase of one $30.00 box. This is not a scam. It's a real service and I've used it. A few months ago, I compared the cost of a box of food to the grocery store where I shop and determined that I would have spent $97.00 for the same things.

Now here's the best part. There are NO qualifications -- NO income restrictions -- NO minimums -- NO application AND they accept food stamps. Most sites accept debit and credit cards. You can definitely use your debit or credit card if you order online. This will cost an extra $1.00.

There is a one downside of this program. It's not available on a weekly basis and you can only order food one time a month.

It doesn't matter if you're rich or poor. Anyone can participate in this program and no one will ever know if you have a financial need or not (unless you participate in the EBT Food Stamp Program). In fact, this program encourages all people to participate regardless of income level. They suggest that those who don't have a financial need to use this program anyway. Then use the money you save to do something for someone who needs financial assistance or who is less fortunate than you.

To see December's menu click HERE. The ordering deadline varies depending on the location. If you hurry, you may make this months deadline. If you miss it, you can participate next month.

If you are recipe-challenged Hillbilly Housewife may be able to help. She's teamed up with the meal planning experts at Menu Planning Central and created menu plans based on the food provided by Angel Food Ministries.

Back To Blogging

2008-12-06T14:26:00.001-05:00

Yes, I know I've been missing for more than a few days. I think my technical difficulties are over and "We Now Return You To Your Regular Scheduled Program Already In Progress." Thanks everybody for your patience.

I Will Be Back In A Few Days

2008-10-17T11:02:00.002-04:00

Thanks for you patience. I'll be back in a few days.

Migraine Medication for A Headache? No! No! No!

2008-09-01T00:42:00.012-04:00

Most Migraineurs know that a Migraine attack is NOT a bad headache. We know that Migraine is a neurological genetic disease similar to Epilepsy. And we know that some of us don't even experience the headache phase during a Migraine attack. Recognizing the difference between head pain associated with a Migraine attack and head pain associated with a headache is difficult for some.

I've been writing a lot lately in the Migraine support group that I co-moderate about distinguishing between the two. I've discussed how to tell the difference between pain that accompanies a Migraine attack and the pain that accompanies a headache. And I've explained why it's important we make this distinction.

One reason why it's important to know these differences is because treatment for Migraine is not the same as headache treatment. For example, using a Migraine-specific medication probably won't do any good for someone who doesn't have Migraines.

The president of the German Pain Aid Association, Ruediger Fabian, now gives another reason why you shouldn't use Migraine-specific medication for the treatment of a headache. Fabian says if you do this, you risk chronic 'pseudo-migraines'. He says:

Even the occasional use of migraine medications by someone without migraines is potentially harmful

and goes on to say

The reactions depend on the person, but they can intensify ordinary headaches

Fabian said the first symptom of an overdose of Migraine-specific medication is "a sour-tasting expulsion of gas from the stomach". Ewwwwww! I'm not sure, but I guess that means a sour-tasting "burp".

He also said those who suffer less than 100 days a year with headaches (He didn't say Migraine) who occasionally didn't get relief from their standard medication could use extra pain medication once in a while.

Source: Migraine medication unsuitable for ordinary headaches

YIPPEE! This Blog No Longer Triggers Migraines

2008-08-31T23:59:00.000-04:00

Ahhhhhhh. This blog template is so much better. It's nice to be able to look at my blog now without wearing sunglasses!! No more blinding font colors or shape-shifting letters. No more color changing backgrounds and no more disappearing sidebar items.

I have a few more things to do before being completely finished but I'm very happy with what's been done so far. What do y'all think?

My Blog Is A Migraine Trigger

2008-08-28T23:53:00.004-04:00

This blog template has got to go! It's giving me a Migraine! I recently changed templates and this one has been a pain in the ass and a pain in the head. Some days the font color is OK - most days it's blinding. Sometimes the font is too big and sometimes it's too small. Some days the background is black like it should be - some days it's SCREAMING yellow. (I shouldn't have to wear sunglasses to blog.) Everyday something on my sidebar is screwed up. When I fix it something else gets screwed up.

I'm sorry if looking at my blog triggers a Migraine - it triggers mine too and I can't take it anymore! So, if you notice anything different or out of the ordinary in the next few days, it's because I'm eliminating one of my triggers - this blog template.

Army Personnel Show Increased Risk For Migraine; Condition Underdiagnosed, Mistreated

2008-08-28T23:45:00.002-04:00

Army Personnel Show Increased Risk For Migraine; Condition Underdiagnosed, Mistreated

ScienceDaily (Aug. 28, 2008) — Two new studies show that migraine headaches are very common among U.S. military personnel, yet the condition is frequently underdiagnosed. The studies, appearing in Headache, the peer-reviewed journal of the American Headache Society, examine the incidence among soldiers within 10 days of returning from a 1-year combat tour in Iraq , as well as U.S. Army officer trainees...
To read the entire article click HERE .

Flying is a headache, literally, for many travelers

2008-08-27T19:34:00.003-04:00

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Headaches associated with air travel appear to be a "huge and painful problem," Israeli researchers report.

In a study of 906 men and women who had traveled more than once by plane, nearly 6 percent reported that they experienced headaches associated with flying.

Based on 3.3 billion seats available each year on commercial flights, with 70 percent occupancy, Dr. Israel Potasman and colleagues from Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa estimate that more than 100 million people suffer from flight-associated headaches annually...
To continue reading this article click HERE.

Migraine Medication May Increase Uric Acid

2008-08-27T17:29:00.003-04:00

Rising uric acid levels tied to migraine drug

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - In migraine patients, treatment with the drug topiramate (sold as Topamax) may result in increasing blood levels of uric acid, a study shows.

Some research has linked high uric acid levels in the body to a higher risk of cardiovascular trouble. Excess uric acid in the body can create oxidative stress, a state that damages body cells and contributes to diseases, including the buildup of artery-clogging plaques...
To read the entire article click HERE.

New Hope For Stroke Patients: Reversing Stroke Damage By Jumpstarting Growth Of Nerve Fibers

2008-08-27T00:23:00.002-04:00

ScienceDaily (Aug. 25, 2008) — If a stroke patient doesn't get treatment within approximately the first three hours of symptoms, there's not much doctors can do to limit damage to the brain.

But now researchers report a technique that potentially could restore functions to patients weeks or even months after a stroke. The technique involves jumpstarting the growth of nerve fibers to compensate for brain cells destroyed by the stroke.

"In the best-case scenario, this would open up the window of time that people could recover and go back to normal functional status," said Gwendolyn Kartje, MD, Ph.D., a professor in the department of cell biology, neurobiology and anatomy and department of neurology at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Ill. and chief of neuroscience research at Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital in Hines, Ill.

Kartje and colleagues described the experimental approach, called anti-nogo-A immunotherapy, in a recent review article in the journal Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation...
To read the entire article click HERE.

School-Age Migraine and Headache Sufferers Head Back to School

2008-08-26T02:05:00.002-04:00

Teri Robert has written a very helpful article about going Back To School With Migraines or Headaches. She states:

When your child has a chronic illness, whether it's headaches, Migraines, or a different illness entirely, we really can't afford to put off getting our children ready for school. There are extra steps that need to be taken; extra preparations that need to be made. In the Miss America scholarship pageant program, they have a motto. They call it "the Ps..."

If your kids suffer with Migraine disease or headaches, you may want to read the entire article HERE.

Migraine Expressions: A Creative Journey through Life with Migraine

2008-08-26T00:08:00.004-04:00

If you haven't heard of or seen the book, Migraine Expressions: A Creative Journey through Life with Migraine yet, you have got to check it out. This magnificent anthology, compiled and edited by Betsy Baxter Blondin, contains art, poetry, essays and photography contributed by 124 writers and artists, all either Migraineurs or loved ones, from many states and countries.

You can order the 192 page hardcover book from Word Metro Press. The book normally retails for $34.95 but right now you can order it for the special price of $27.95. Part of the proceeds will be contributed to Migraine research and advocacy organizations.

More information can be found in the press release below.

NEW MIGRAINE ART AND LITERATURE BOOK FROM WORD METRO PRESS

Groundbreaking book depicts migraine in insightful visual and written art from migraineurs worldwide

San Diego, California, July 16, 2008 – Migraine Expressions: A Creative Journey through Life with Migraine illustrates in breathtaking art, poetry, essays and photography some of the ways tens of millions of people worldwide live, work, feel and love while trying to minimize attacks and manage symptoms of this often-debilitating disease. The courage and strength that takes is illuminated in this dramatic work from 124 writers and artists in many states and countries.

No other book expresses migraine in both words and art of people who suffer the symptoms and survive the disease; most books about migraine are from experts who define, explain, and offer advice on how to manage it. This book will complement existing information, be instrumental for people with migraine to share experiences and communicate feelings, and serve as a tool for furthering understanding among non-migraineurs.

Migraine is a neurobiological disease impacting more than 30 million people in the United States and similarly 12 to 15 percent of people in most countries of the world. It is a debilitating and little-understood disorder that is finally attracting the long-overdue attention it urgently needs in medical research and treatment arenas as well as in the general media. Celebrities, athletes and well-known professionals appear more and more often to share their stories or in news items of crippling migraine attacks. They represent many millions of others around the world.

Suzanne E. Simons, Executive Director of the National Headache Foundation, commented, “Congratulations! The images and the words are compelling. Migraineurs will relate to the visual images and poems. Those who don’t suffer may be better able to empathize after reading the book.”

The book includes a foreword by leading migraine educator, advocate and author, Teri Robert, Ph.D., who says, “Projects such as Migraine Expressions are rare, priceless, and sorely needed. They offer an intimate view of the impact of migraine disease. The works of art in this book are deeply personal and revealing. They are heart-wrenching and inspiring, filled with both terror and hope.”

And Richard B. Lipton, MD, Professor of Neurology and Director, Montefiore Headache Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, claims, "Migraine Expressions reveals a neurobiological disease from many highly personal perspectives as contributors transform their experiences into stunning verbal and visual art. The book will help people with migraine find their individual voices even as they recognize the universality of their shared experiences.”

Book details: Hardcover, 192 pages, full color, 8.5 by 11 inches, available from publisher at www.wordmetropress.com July 21, 2008, $34.95 retail. Editor is available for interviews, appearances and book signings.

FDA Recall - One Lot of Fentanyl Transdermal System Patch

2008-08-13T02:01:00.001-04:00

Watson Announces Limited Recall Of Fentanyl

CORONA, CA - August 8, 2008 - Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a leading specialty pharmaceutical company, announced today that one lot of 75 mcg/hr Fentanyl Transdermal System patches sold in the United States is being voluntarily recalled from wholesalers and pharmacies. The recalled patches are from Lot Number 92461850, have expiration dates of August 31, 2009 and were manufactured by Watson Laboratories, Inc. The affected lot of Fentanyl Transdermal System patches was shipped to customers between January 30, 2008 and March 19, 2008. No other strengths or lots were affected and the Company does not anticipate any product shortages as a result of this recall. The Company has notified the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the recall.

A small number of patches leaking fentanyl gel have been detected in this lot, potentially exposing patients or caregivers directly to fentanyl gel. Fentanyl patches that are leaking should not be used. No injuries have been reported in connection with the recalled lot. However, exposure to fentanyl gel may lead to serious adverse events, including respiratory depression and possible overdose, which may be fatal.

Anyone who has 75 mcg/hr Fentanyl Transdermal System patches should check the box or foil pouch for the lot number and expiration date to see if they have patches that are being recalled. Affected patches should not be handled directly. Anyone with 75 mcg/hr Fentanyl Transdermal System patches being recalled should call 888-667-1508, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. EDT, for instructions on how to return affected product.

Patients using fentanyl patches who have medical questions should contact their health-care providers.

Any adverse reactions experienced with the use of this product, and/or quality problems should also be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Program by phone at 1-800-FDA-1088, by Fax at 1-800-FDA-0178, by mail at MedWatch, FDA, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787, or on the MedWatch website at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Fentanyl Transdermal System CII is indicated for the management of persistent, moderate to severe chronic pain that requires continuous, around the clock opioid administration for an extended period of time and cannot be managed by other means such as non-steroidal analgesics, opioid combination products, or immediate release opioids.

Anyone who comes in contact with fentanyl gel should thoroughly rinse exposed skin with large amounts of water only; do not use soap. Immediately dispose of affected patches that may be damaged or compromised in any way by flushing them down the toilet, using caution not to handle them directly. Damaged and/or compromised patches that have leaked gel will not provide effective pain relief.

The entire FDA recall can be found HERE.

Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA Website (www.fda.gov)--both text and graphics--are not copyrighted.

Migraine Medication May Throw a Monkey Wrench In Scheduled Execution

2008-08-05T02:57:00.003-04:00

Richard Cooey, a convicted rapist and murderer is scheduled to be executed in Ohio this October. Physician, Dr. Mark Heath, hired by the Ohio Public Defender's Office filed documents with the court last week stating, Topamax, the medication that Cooey uses for Migraine prevention, may make him resistant to the drug Thiopental. This is the medication that puts inmates to sleep before other lethal drugs are administered. Cooey is 5' 7" and 267 pounds. Heath contends that Cooey's obesity combined with this potential drug resistance increases the risk of him not being properly anesthetized before being executed.

source: Ohio inmate says he's too fat for execution

Migraine News: Exercise, Stroke and Heart Risk, Oxygen Therapy

2008-08-01T02:52:00.008-04:00

Exercise plus relaxation may lessen migraine pain

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - A combination of aerobic exercise and muscle relaxation may help ease migraine pain, a small study suggests.

Austrian researchers found that when 15* migraine sufferers added an exercise-and-relaxation routine to their usual care, the patients reported an improvement in migraine pain intensity over six weeks...

To read this entire article click HERE.

*Note: 15 participants IS a very small study.

Gene May Put Women With Migraine At Increased Risk Of Heart Disease And Stroke

Women who experience migraine with aura appear to be at an increased risk of heart disease and stroke if they have a certain gene, according to a study published in the July 30, 2008, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

For the study, researchers followed 25,001 Caucasian women for the occurrence of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and ischemic stroke. About 18 percent of the women in the study had a history of migraine while 40 percent of those with active migraine reported migraine with aura...

To read this entire article click HERE.

Oxygen Therapy Might Ease Pain Of Migraine, Cluster Headaches

ScienceDaily (July 17, 2008) — Two types of oxygen therapy could offer some relief to adults who suffer from disabling migraine and cluster headaches, according to a new research review from Australia...

To read this entire article click HERE.

Migraine Medication Savings - Part II

2008-07-31T20:25:00.010-04:00

If you can't afford your prescription medications, here are a few things you can do.

You may be eligible to use a rebate, coupon, voucher or qualify for a trial offer for the medications that I wrote about in Migraine Medication Savings.

The Wal-Mart generic program offers a 30-day supply of certain generic medication for $4.00. A 90-day supply will only cost you $10.00. If you use a heart (calcium channel blocker, beta blocker) or blood pressure medication or an antidepressant as a preventive, you may benefit from this program. I found some of these medications on the list. There are no Migraine specific medications such as Triptans or Dihydroergotamine (DHE) on the list. There are some pain medications such as Ibuprofen on this list but I did not see any narcotic medications. I also did not see any antiseizure medications.

Other big box discount stores have similar programs. One of these is Target's generic program. A 30-day supply is also $4.00 and a 90-day supply is $10.00. There are many of the same medications on their list. Kmart has a 90-day Generic Program. These medications cost $10.00 and $15.00. Their list can be found HERE. I couldn't find any Migraine medications on their $5.00 Program List. However, some analgesics are listed. Costco offers its members a prescription savings plan for those with no insurance. Information on this program can be found HERE.

A Patient Assistance Program (PAP) may help you with low-cost or no-cost medicatons. Many pharmaceutical companies offer assistance if you have no insurance or cannot pay for your medication. They have strict guidelines (i.e. income and assets) for determining your eligibility. There are a number of sites that will help you locate a PAP. One of the more well known programs is the Partnership for Prescription Assistance Program (PPARx) program. After answering eligibility questions, the site will provide you with any programs that you may possibly qualify for. They can also be reached by calling 1-888-4PPA-NOW (1-888-477-2669).

Another well known site is NeedyMeds. This site has a lot of good information including a Brand Name and Generic directory to see what programs you may be eligible for. This site also offers information on State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP or SHIIP), Disease-Based Assistance programs and some Discount Drug Cards.

Other sites that may help are RxAssist.org (requires you to register an account), Rxhope.com, and National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) .

If you do not qualify for a PAP offered by a pharmaceutical company
through one of these sources you will NOT qualify for it by using another. However, you may find different information about other things such as federal and state programs or discount cards on various sites so you may want to check out more than one. All of these services are FREE.

There are a number of companies that will charge you for this FREE service. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns there is No Need to Pay for Information on Free (or Low-Cost) Rx Drugs and says:

While it’s true that many prescription drug companies offer free or low-cost drugs for people who don’t have prescription drug coverage, can’t afford to pay for medication out of pocket, or have exhausted their insurance’s annual allowance, the programs have strict qualification standards. Factors that affect whether you qualify may include your income and the cost of the drugs you need.

If you’re trying to get free or low-cost prescription drugs, you don’t have to pay for information on how to do it. You just have to know where to look. The information is free — and publicly available — from your physician, pharmacists, and the government.

One of the services that charge for this FREE service is FreeMedicine.com aka FreeMedicineFoundation.com. This service will send YOU the paperwork from each pharmaceutical company so that YOU and your doctor can apply for prescription assistance. This service charges an application processing fee of $10.00 per medication. This service does promise a refund if you are declined for a PAP stating:

If you are determined ineligible by all applicable sponsores [sic], and receive no medicine assistance, send a written request to Free Medicine Foundation, include denial letter(s) for all applicable sponsor(s) within 120 days of original application and your processing fee will be fully refunded.

Other program guidelines can be found HERE.

Articles discussing this company can be found on the Consumer Fraud Reporting site and the Los Angeles Times site. Answers4Families (a partner of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the University of Nebraska - Lincoln Center on Children, Families, and the Law) states:

An organization called the Free Medicine Foundation www.freemedicinefoundation.com has been recently marketing their services. The Better Business Bureau indicates the Free Medicine Foundation has an unsatisfactory standing with their organization. The BBB points out that this organization is not registered as a "foundation" and the don't actually provide their services for "free." The application process for the Free Medicine Foundation requires that the individual pay them $5* per medication, in order for them to check on whether you qualify for one of the pharmaceutical companies' patient assistance programs.

*Note: The cost has increased from $5.00 to $10.00.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Reliability Report states they have:

...processed a total of 43 complaints about this company in the last 36 months, our standard reporting period. Of the total of 43 complaints closed in 36 months, 24 were closed in the last year.

To see the the entire report click HERE.

If you do not qualify for a PAP, you may be eligible to use a discount card. Some of these are SunAssociation, FreeDrugCard.us, PSCard.com, and YourRxCard.com.

Generic Migraine Medication Approved by FDA

2008-07-29T21:20:00.005-04:00

FDA Approves First Generic Divalproex Sodium to Treat Seizures, Migraine Headaches and Bipolar Disorder

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved the first generic versions of Depakote delayed-release tablets (divalproex sodium). Depakote is approved by the FDA for the treatment of seizures, bipolar disorder and migraine headaches.

"Generic drugs undergo a rigorous scientific review to ensure that they will provide the patient with the same amount of high quality, safe and effective drug as the name brand product," said Gary J. Buehler, director of the FDA's Office of Generic Drugs. "This approval provides an additional treatment option for patients who suffer from epilepsy, bipolar disorder and migraines."

Generic divalproex sodium will have the same safety warnings as Depakote, including a Boxed Warning that cautions about the risk of liver damage (hepatotoxicity), including fatalities, and pancreatitis, or an inflamed pancreas, including fatal cases. The Boxed Warning also highlights the risk of birth defects (teratogenicity), including neural tube defects.

The following firms have received approval to market divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Mumbai, India; Genpharm Inc., Ontario, Canada; Nu-Pharm Inc., Ontario, Canada; Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Maple Grove, Minn.; Sandoz Inc., Broomfield, Colo.; TEVA Pharmaceuticals USA, North Wales, Penn.; Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Hyderabad, India; and Lupin Limited, Mumbai, India.

For more information, see

Consumer Education: Generic Drugs

Information on specific drug products can be found on the Web site "Drugs@FDA"

http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/drugsatfda/

This is the complete article. Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA Website (www.fda.gov)--both text and graphics--are not copyrighted.

Migraine Medication Savings

2008-07-22T23:20:00.011-04:00

As I said in my last post something good has come out of obnoxious pharmaceutical television commercials and radio advertisements - COUPONS, REBATES, VOUCHERS and FREE MEDICATION TRIALS. Listed below are current savings on medications that Migraine sufferers often use. There are different qualifications for each medication offer. Please make sure you read the FAQ's and/or patient eligibility guidelines carefully to see if you qualify.

Savings offers on the following drugs are below:

Treximet, Zomig, Maxalt, Migranal, Frova, Relpax, Topamax, Cymbalta, Kadian, Ambien, Lunesta, Ultram ER, Duragesic, Soma, Skelaxin

Treximet® - Lower The Pain

Receive your $50* coupon by filling out the brief form below, then clicking “Submit.” We'll also provide you with important news and information about migraine treatment, as well as additional valuable money-saving offers for TREXIMET. Only one $50 trial coupon per person.

source: https://www.treximet.com/optin/registration.jsp

In order to be eligible for this offer: (a) where third-party reimbursement covers a portion of your prescription, this coupon is valid only for the amount of your actual out-of-pocket expenses up to a maximum of $50, (b) your prescription MUST NOT be covered (i.e., reimbursed) by a federal healthcare program, including Medicare or Medicaid, or by any similar federal or state program, including a state pharmaceutical assistance program, and (c) you MUST NOT be Medicare eligible and enrolled in an employer-sponsored health plan or prescription drug benefit program for retirees (i.e., you are eligible for Medicare Part D but receive a prescription drug benefit through a former employer). Further, if you are a resident of Massachusetts, this offer is valid only if you are paying the entire cost of the prescription yourself (i.e., your insurance does not cover any of the cost of your prescription). Your acceptance of this offer must be consistent with the terms of any drug benefit provided by your health insurer, health plan, or private third-party payor, and you agree to report acceptance of this offer to your health insurer, health plan, or third-party payor as may be required. This offer may not be used with any other discount, coupon, or offer. Only an original coupon will be accepted and must be presented to your pharmacist at the time you have the prescription filled–not valid if reproduced. Offer good only in USA. Not transferable. Void where prohibited by law, taxed, or restricted. GlaxoSmithKline reserves the right to rescind, revoke, or amend this coupon without notice. Limit 1 per purchase. Only one $50 trial coupon per person.

source: https://www.treximet.com/optin/registration.jsp#

Zomig® - Living With Migraine Voucher Program

Welcome to the Zomig Cost-Saving Coupon Program. This coupon may cover payment for your co-pay for a ZOMIG prescription up to $35, for up to a maximum of 6 times in 12 consecutive months. If you are not enrolled in a pharmacy benefits program, you may receive $35 off your ZOMIG prescription purchase or the amount paid for your prescription, whichever is less, for a maximum of 6 times in 12 consecutive months. Please see enrollment requirements and other terms and conditions.

source: https://www.activatethecard.com/zomig/appSecZomigWelcome.jsp

Maxalt® - Free Trial Offer

Merck is pleased to provide a free trial offer of MAXALT or MAXALT-MLT. To receive your voucher for a free trial of up to 3 tablets or 3 orally disintegrating tablets, click on the PRINT VOUCHER FOR A FREE TRIAL button at the bottom of this page and print out the voucher form.

If MAXALT / MAXALT MLT is the appropriate therapy for you, your doctor will write a prescription for you. Then take your prescription and the voucher to your pharmacist to get your free trial of up to 3 tablets or 3 orally disintegrating tablets. This offer is valid only with a prescription from your doctor. Offer expires 12/31/2008.

Limitations apply. Please see Terms and Conditions on the voucher for details.

source: http://www.maxalt.com/rizatriptan_benzoate/maxalt/consumer/special_offers/free.jsp?WT.svl=5

Relpax® - Step Up to the Challenge and Get a $10 RELPAX Coupon

To qualify for the rewards program, you must be taking RELPAX. If you are not currently a RELPAX user, ask your doctor if RELPAX is right for you and enroll once you’ve tried it.

source: https://www.relpaxchallenge.com/content/coupon-registration.jsp

Migranal® - It's Never Too Late for Relief

Let MIGRANAL^® help you gain control of your migraines.

Do you wait until your migraine is already at full strength before taking your medication?

Do you “hoard” your medication and only use it when the pain becomes unbearable?

$20 off your next prescription of MIGRANAL

source: http://prescriptionmigrainerelief.com/HTML-INF/4_0_Try_Migranal_Today/index.shtml

Frova® - Rebate save up to $35

Offer expires 12/31/08

source: http://www.frova.com/dtp/_pdf/FROVA_Rebate_Voucher.pdf

Topamax® - Free Trial Offer for up to 42 (25mg) tablets

Talk to your doctor to find out if TOPAMAX is right for you. TOPAMAX is available by prescription only.

If your doctor prescribes TOPAMAX, you can get up to 42 TOPAMAX 25 mg tablets free from your pharmacist with this offer.

Present your written prescription for up to 42 TOPAMAX 25 mg tablets AND this trial offer to your pharmacist to receive your free trial of TOPAMAX.

source: http://www.topamax.com/topamax/tools-resources--free-trial-offer.html

Cymbalta® - This voucher is valid for 14 Capsules of CYMBALTA (all strengths covered) and must be accompanied by a valid prescription.

Thank you for your interest in a free sample of Cymbalta® (duloxetine HCl). Remember, only your doctor or healthcare professional can diagnose your condition and determine proper treatment.

To receive your free voucher, please enter your age and select your indication below, then click "Submit." When the voucher page appears, be sure to follow all instructions listed. Because there is a 1-voucher limit per person, you will not be able to return to the voucher page once you have left it. Please print the voucher page before leaving it. If you have difficulty, please call 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5957).

source: http://voucher.cymbalta.com/

Kadian® - Save up to $50 on each KADIAN® monthly prescription

To receive a co-pay assistance card in the mail for up to $50 off each KADIAN^®monthly prescription, please provide the following information or call 1-877-265-2861

source: http://www.kadian.com/pages/getpage.aspx?id=4F94959E-FE71-4158-9276-83A0FF8F20102010

Ambien CR® - Try our free 7-night invite and get up to $100 off when you join

If you're having trouble sleeping and think you could be experiencing insomnia, you've come to the right place. Two layer AMBIEN CR not only helps you fall asleep, but has a second layer to help you stay asleep*, so you wake up less frequently and fall back to sleep faster. And now we have two offers to make it easy for you to try AMBIEN CR and save on your prescription.

To get your offers:

Click on GET CERTIFICATES

Print your certificates and take them to your healthcare provider

If your provider thinks AMBIEN CR is right for you, take your AMBIEN CR prescription and certificate to your pharmacist for your FREE trial offer

Start experiencing the 2-layer difference of AMBIEN CR

You can also continue to save up to $20^† on each of your next 5 AMBIEN CR prescriptions—that's up to $100 in savings!

Start making a difference in your life today.

* Proven effective for up to 7 hours in clinical studies.

^† Maximum benefit is $20 off, on up to 5 prescriptions, depending on your out-of-pocket costs. Not valid for patients participating in Medicare, Medicaid, government (public insurance) programs, or any private payor in the state of Massachusetts and where prohibited by law.

source: http://www.ambiencr.com/cr-extras/ambien-coupon-free-trial.aspx

Lunesta® - SIGN UP FOR 7 NIGHTS OF LUNESTA FREE AND FOR SPECIAL LUNESTA OFFERS AND UPDATES.

Are you ready to find out whether or not LUNESTA is right for you? We're ready to help you do just that with this special offer. Getting a good value is as nice as getting a good night's sleep.

Try LUNESTA for 7 Nights Free.

As with all medications, individual results vary, so the only way to find out if LUNESTA works for you is to give it a try. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and about LUNESTA. If you and your doctor decide that LUNESTA is right for you, use this coupon for 7 free nights of LUNESTA.

Follow these simple steps to take advantage of this free trial offer:

STEP 1: Complete the form below.

STEP 2: Click the Submit button to display the Trial Script® Coupon.

STEP 3: Click the Print button located at the bottom of the Trial Script ® Coupon, bring it to your doctor and ask if LUNESTA is right for you.

STEP 4: After your doctor attaches the coupon to a completed, signed prescription form, go to your pharmacist and receive your free tablets of LUNESTA

Source: https://secure.lunesta.com/lunestaPromos/lunesta-coupon.cfm

Ultram ER® - Free Trial offer or up to 2 weeks free

Get more information - and up to 2 weeks of ULTRAM® ER, free

or

Special offer if you are already taking ULTRAM® ER -- Save $25 on your ULTRAM® ER prescription and up to two refills.

source: http://www.ultram-er.com/ultram-er/age_check.do?coupontype=voucher&source=Web

Duragesic® - Instant Savings up to $50

Please be advised that we will not collect any of your personal information when you generate the savings coupon for DURAGESIC^®. To learn more about the information collection practices for this savings coupon, please refer to the DURAGESIC^® Coupon Privacy Policy. The information found within the DURAGESIC^® Coupon Privacy Policy applies only to this savings coupon and differs from the general Privacy Policy for www.DURAGESIC.com.

source: http://www.duragesic.com/duragesic/exit_coupon.html?&newURL=http://69.20.85.102

Soma® 250mg - Instant Savings Up to $30 off your SOMA® 250 mg prescription

1. Fill out the form below

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Pharmaceutical Ads - Give Me a Break!

2008-07-22T23:17:00.004-04:00

I've had it up to my eyeballs with pharmaceutical advertising! If you're like me, you're probably sick of these controversial ads too. Every time we turn on the TV, we're bombarded with ads for conditions such as Migraine, Elevated Cholesterol, Depression, Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and of course Erectile Dysfunction.

Do you know who Dr. Robert Jarvik is? My tweenager does. He watches enough TV to know that Dr. Jarvik is the spokesman for Pfizer's cholesterol lowering medication, Lipitor, and that he invented the artificial heart. He can also recite the words verbatim, “When diet and exercise aren’t enough, adding Lipitor significantly lowers cholesterol”. The New York Times tells us what my son and millions of other people in TV land don't know:

...though Jarvik graduated from medical school, he's not licensed to practice medicine or to write prescriptions. He doesn't see patients. He was a consultant to Lipitor maker Pfizer, under contract for $1.35 million. And he didn't start taking Lipitor until a month after he started doing the ads. Oh, and that wasn't him rowing; it was someone who looked like him in a similar jacket.

Because of these ads, my preteen can also explain what Erectile Dysfunction is, tell you about Viagra, warn you "in the rare event of an erection lasting more than 4 hours, seek immediate medical help to avoid long-term injury" and sing all the words to the "Viva Viagra" song.

Even though I'm sick of these commercials, one good thing has come out of this...COUPONS, REBATES, VOUCHERS AND FREE TRIALS. For more information on this see my next post.

Migraine/Epilepsy Drug Linked to Birth Defects

2008-07-22T22:00:00.005-04:00

Topamax May Raise Risk of Birth Defects

Small Study Shows Increase in Birth Defects When Epilepsy/Migraine Drug Is Used During Pregnancy

The epilepsy and migraine prevention drug Topamax has been linked to an increased risk of birth defects in babies born to epilepsy patients who took it during pregnancy, a small study shows.

In a study published in the latest issue of the journal Neurology, taking Topamax (topiramate) during pregnancy was associated with a birth defect risk within the range of risk seen in other anti-epileptic drugs, researchers reported.

To read the entire article click HERE.

Abnormal Sleep Patterns in Women Linked to Stroke

2008-07-22T21:38:00.002-04:00

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Sleep patterns in middle-aged women can increase their risk for stroke, researchers in the United States have found. The greatest increase in stroke risk -- 70 percent -- was noted among women who slept 9 hours or more per night, according to their report in the medical journal Stroke.

To read the entire article click HERE.

Cymbalta Approved For Fibromyalgia Treatment

2008-06-16T13:05:00.003-04:00

Cymbalta (Duloxetine) has just been approved to treat Fibromyalgia. Until now, there was only one medication, Lyrica (Pregabalin), approved to treat this illness.

In addition to the side effects of Cymbalta, Medpage Today warns:

Duloxetine should not be taken by patients who are using or have recently used a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, patients taking thioridazine (Mellaril) or patients with uncontrolled glaucoma. Severe and sometimes fatal liver problems have been reported among patients taking duloxetine. Duloxetine may increase the risk of hemorrhage among patients taking NSAIDs, aspirin, or other blood thinners.

Cymbalta is also approved for Major Depressive Disorder, the pain caused by Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

Migraine and Fibromyalgia are often comorbid. Other illnesses comorbid with Migraine include but are not limited to Thyroid Disease, Temporomandibular Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Epilepsy, Hypertension, and Stroke.

The Drew Carey Project Releases Another Medical Marijuana Reason.tv Video

2008-06-13T23:24:00.007-04:00

Although the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) tells us in Exposing the Myth of Smoked Medical Marijuana that there are no potential benefits of medical marijuana, many states have laws that allow those with specific debilitating medical conditions the right to use it. It is a well documented remedy for many health conditions including Migraine, Glaucoma, Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer, HIV and Aids.

However, federal legislation prohibits the use of Medical Marijuana. Since federal law supersedes state law, the DEA continues to raid and prosecute both users and distributors in the states that allow it's use.

Drew Carey, (yes, that Drew Carey) host of The Drew Carey Project. has released another Reason.tv video on medical marijuana. In this video Carey asks:

Are we really helping minors by keeping them from medical marijuana at all costs? Or are we treating their parents like children?

Do you know what position your presidiential candidates takes on this issue? A press release issued by Reason Foundation points out:

The two major presidential candidates have taken completely opposite positions on medical marijuana and the DEA raids. Last month, Oregon's Willamette Week asked Sen. Barack Obama, "Would you stop the DEA's raids on Oregon medical marijuana growers?" Obama responded, "I would because I think our federal agents have better things to do, like catching criminals and preventing terrorism."

In March, Obama told Oregon's Mail Tribune, "When it comes to medical marijuana, I have more of a practical view than anything else. I mean, my attitude is that if it's an issue of doctors prescribing medical marijuana as a treatment for glaucoma or as a cancer treatment, I think that should be appropriate because there really is no difference between that and a doctor prescribing morphine or anything else."

The Republican National Committee attacked Sen. Obama's response to the Willamette Week's question and Sen. John McCain says he'll continue the Bush administration's aggressive efforts. McCain, who once supported states' rights on the issue, now says, "I don't believe that medical marijuana is necessary for alleving pain, relief of pain. I don't believe it's healthy…I believe it is a national issue and not a statewide issue."

When asked what he'd do to stop federal raids in states where voters have made medical marijuana legal, McCain said, "Nothing."
You can view Drew Carey's other medical marijuana video HERE and additional Drew Carey videos HERE.

The Drug Policy Alliance Network offers lots of additional information including Marijuana: The Facts and Medical Marijuana Fact Sheet.

Migranes And Sleep Disorders Linked In Children

2008-06-13T22:25:00.003-04:00

Children with a migraine headache are more likely to have sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and lack of sleep, than children without a migraine, according to a research abstract on the effects of headaches on children's sleep patterns presented on Tuesday at SLEEP 2008, the 22nd Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS).

More on this research study can be found HERE.

FDA Recall - ETHEX Recalls ADDITIONAL Lots of Extended Release Morphine Sulfate 30mg and 60mg

2008-06-13T21:55:00.005-04:00

ETHEX Corporation announced today that it has voluntarily recalled specific additional morphine sulfate 60 mg extended release tablets, and specific lots of morphine sulfate 30 mg extended release tablets, as a precaution, due to the possible presence of oversized tablets. Oversized tablets may contain as much as two times the labeled level of active morphine sulfate. The recalled lots were distributed by ETHEX Corporation under an "ETHEX" label between June 2006 and May 2008.

The 30 mg extended release tablets are pink oval tablets with "30" on one side, and "E" on reverse the 60 mg extended release tablets are white oval tablets with "60" on one side, and "E" on the reverse.

This FDA expanded recall can be found HERE.

FDA Recall - Morphine Sulfate 60 mg Extended Release Tablets

2008-06-10T12:44:00.006-04:00

ETHEX Corporation announced today that it has voluntarily recalled a single lot of morphine sulfate 60 mg extended release tablets (Lot No. 91762) due to a report of a tablet with twice the appropriate thickness. Oversized tablets may contain as much as two times the labeled level of active morphine sulfate. The lot was distributed by ETHEX Corporation under an "ETHEX" label between April 16th and April 27th of 2008. No other dosage strength, nor any other lot of the 60 mg strength is affected by this recall.

The entire FDA recall can be found HERE.

Get a Head S.T.A.R.T on Your Headaches - National Headache Awareness Week

2008-06-03T08:56:00.008-04:00

This week, June 1-7, 2008, The National Headache Foundation (NHF) is sponsoring National Headache Awareness Week. The NHF wants you to get a head S.T.A.R.T. on your Headaches by remembering these 5 strategies:

Seek diagnosis - Obtaining the correct diagnosis for your headache is the first step toward effective treatment.

Triggers - Identify and track your triggers (e.g. foods, stress, hormonal or weather changes) by keeping a headache diary and share this information with your healthcare provider.

Advocate - Be an advocate. Be informed. Be a participant in your headache care.

Resources - Use the National Headache Foundation as a resource. For the latest information about headache causes and treatments visit www.headaches.org

Treatment - Successful treatment may include medications and lifestyle changes. Work with your healthcare provider to find the right plan for you.

Events taking place country-wide can be found HERE. The NHF is also hosting a 5-part podcast aimed at women.

6/2 - Dr. Susan Hutchinson - Hormones & Headache
6/3 - Dr. Susan Broner - Contraception & Migraine
6/4 - Dr. Lisa Mannix - Menstrual Migraine
6/5 - Dr. Grace Forde - Pregnancy & Migraine
6/6 - Dr. Merle Diamond - Menopause & Headache

These podcasts are available for download on the NHF site.

More information on National Headache Awareness Week can be found in this press release.

UPDATE: Getting the Correct Information on Migraine Drug Treximet

2008-05-29T03:30:00.008-04:00

The comments I made to the The Real Cougar Woman in reference to the misinformation in the article Migraine Sufferers - This New Drug Might Help You are now showing. I don't know if they were removed intentionally or if it was just one of those "things" that sometimes happens in cyberspace.

I was hoping that because my comments weren't there, the article might be corrected. But noooooo, the article remains the same. Wait, something has been fixed. It's so small that I almost missed it. The last sentence no longer says:

If you are a migraine sufferer ask your doctor if treximent is for you.

Now it says:

If you are a migraine sufferer ask your doctor if treximet is for you.

The spelling of the word "treximent" has now been corrected to "treximet". YIPPEE!

One down, a bunch to go...

This updates my previous blog entry Getting the Correct Information on Migraine Drug Treximet

Who is GINA? And What Does She Have To Do With Migraine Disease?

2008-05-28T21:31:00.013-04:00

GINA is not a "who" but a "what". GINA is the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008. GINA was signed into law by President George W. Bush on May 21, 2008.

On April 24, 2008, the Senate passed this bill 95 - 0. It was sent back to the House of Representatives on May 1, 2008 and passed 414 - 16 - 1. Congressman Ron Paul (R-TX) was the only person to vote against this bill.

GINA makes it illegal for insurance companies and employers to discriminate against you because of your genetic makeup. A press release issued by Coalition for Genetic Fairness explains that this legislation protects against this discrimination by:

Prohibiting group health insurance plans and issuers offering coverage on the group or individual market from basing eligibility determinations or adjusting premiums or contributions on the basis of an individual's genetic information. Insurance companies cannot request, require or purchase the results of genetic tests, and they are prohibited from disclosing personal genetic information.
Prohibiting issuers of Medigap policies from adjusting pricing or conditioning eligibility on the basis of genetic information. They cannot request, require or purchase the results of genetic tests, or disclose genetic information.
Prohibiting employers from firing, refusing to hire, or otherwise discriminating with respect to compensation, terms, conditions or privileges of employment. Employers may not request, require or purchase genetic information, and they are also prohibited from disclosing personal genetic information. Similar provisions apply to employment agencies and labor organizations.

Congresswomen Louise Slaughter (D-NY), who first authored and introduced genetic nondiscrimination legislation thirteen years ago, issued this press release explaining the historical precedents for GINA:

In the 1970s, many African-Americans were denied jobs, educational opportunities, and insurance based on their carrier status for sickle cell anemia, despite the fact that a carrier lacked the two copies of a mutation necessary to get sick.
In 1998, Lawrence Livermore Laboratories in Berkeley was found to have been performing tests for syphilis, pregnancy, and sickle cell on employees without their knowledge or consent for years.
In 2000, the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad performed genetic tests on employees without their knowledge or consent.

So, what does all this have to do with Migraine Disease?
Migraine is a hereditary condition. It is a genetic neurologically-based disease. The MAGNUM article, Migraines: Myth Vs. Reality explains:

Migraine is a genetically-based disease. We first learned this in the mid-90's, as it was specifically stated in correspondence with M.A.G.N.U.M. by Dr. Stephen J. Peroutka, M.D., Ph.D., President & CEO of Spectra Biomedical, Inc., a group of research physicians dedicated to understanding the genetic basis of Migraine and other illnesses, the "data are unequivocal: Migraine is a genetically-based illness. Individuals with a single parent having Migraine have approximately a 50% chance of having Migraine. This susceptibility is neither psychological nor induced by environmental causes."

Although Griffith University's Genomics Research Centre (GRC) in Australia is not the only one doing genetic research for Migraine disease, it is the home of the world's largest collection of DNA samples from migraine patients. The GRC has discovered different genetic regions on chromosomes 1, 19 and X where Migraine genes are found. Through genetic research, they have identified a link between hormones and Migraine and a link between Migraine genes and stroke saying:

There's a mutation in this gene that makes people more likely to suffer stroke and also increases the risk of migraine. We believe this to be a link between migraine and stroke.

It is possible for genetic testing to play a huge role in finding a cure for Migraine and other diseases and conditions. GINA will allow those of us with a genetic disease or condition to participate in testing without the fear that our insurance companies and employers find out. Those who may be predisposed to a specific genetic condition now have the opportunity to be proactive by monitoring their health and possibly preventing a genetic disease or condition.

For more information on genetic discrimination, you can read the 25-page report in pdf format: Faces of Genetic Discrimination: How Genetic Discrimination Affects Real People. (I did say it was 25-pages and in pdf format, right?)

The Pitfalls of Over-The-Counter Pain Medications for Migraine and Other Types of Pain

2008-05-26T02:33:00.025-04:00

Next time you grab that bottle of over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicine for your Migraine, neck, headache, back, knee or other pain make sure you know the facts. Acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen CAN hurt you. Two articles published this past week discuss the overuse of OTCs. The June 2008 issue of Consumer Reports features the article, Beware of overusing over-the-counter pain relievers and U.S. Pharmacist features the May 20, 2008 article, Common Adverse Events and Interactions with OTC Pain Medications.

The Consumer Reports article contained the results of an online survey regarding how people use OTCs. The Consumer Reports National Research Center surveyed 47,283 subscribers in 2007. They found that 14,658 (31%) of the survey participants did not always follow instructions on the label. The also found that:

5 percent used OTC pain relievers daily for two weeks or more without a health expert's approval, ignoring label directions.
4 percent routinely took excessive doses without consulting a health professional.
4 percent experienced serious side effects, including ulcers and kidney, liver, and heart problems, that a health professional said could be traced to use of OTC drugs.

The three main ~~excuses~~ reasons survey participants used to explain why they were overusing OTCs were 1) They were in severe pain, 2) They didn't experience any side effects, or 3) They weighed more or they were taller than average.

Published research indicates OTC overuse is more prevalent nationally than among Consumer Reports subscribers. A 2005 study, published in The Journal of Rheumatology, claims:

...36 million Americans are using OTC pain medications daily, with roughly 23 million using NSAID. Further, one-fourth of users exceeded the recommended dose of OTC medication, and the belief that OTC are safer than prescription doses was common. More disturbing is that about half of the interviewees either were unaware of the potential toxicity of these agents or were unconcerned. These findings strongly underscore the need for educational interventions directed to the general public as well as physicians.

There are dangers of OTC analgesics that many people are not aware of. Most healthcare providers believe that using analgesics for Migraine pain, regardless of whether they are prescribed by your healthcare provider or purchased OTC, more than 2 or 3 DAYS a WEEK or consecutively can cause Medication Overuse Headache (MOH) also known as Rebound Headaches. The article, Medication Overuse Headache - When the Remedy Backfires explains:

Medication-overuse headache is an interaction between a medication used excessively and a susceptible patient...
... What is crucial is that treatment (resulting in MOH) occurs both frequently and regularly, i.e., on several days each week...
...the headache associated with medication overuse often has a peculiar pattern shifting, even within the same day, from having migraine-like characteristics to having those of tension-type headache (i.e., a new type of headache).
The diagnosis of medication-overuse headache is clinically extremely important because patients rarely respond to preventative medications whilst overusing acute medications.

Acetaminophen is not recommended for those with liver disease, kidney disease or those who consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks per day. The FDA warns that exceeding the recommended dosage or overdosing on acetaminophen can lead to liver damage.

NSAIDs, include aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen. With the exception of aspirin, NSAIDs can increase stroke and heart attack risk. (Aspirin combined with another NSAID carries the same risk.) They can also be harmful to the liver, kidneys and stomach. NSAIDs can cause ulcers, bleeding, perforation and other gastrointestional effects. The FDA says:

The risk for bleeding is low for those who take these products intermittently. For those who take the products on a daily or regular basis, the risk is increased, particularly for those over 65 years of age or those who take corticosteriods (such as prednisone). Those who use hormone therapy (estrogens and progestins) for post-menopausal symptoms or birth control do not have an increased risk for bleeding.

In addition, consumers should ask health care providers about NSAID use if they have kidney disease or are taking diuretics (fluid pills).

The U.S. Pharmacist article, geared towards pharmacists rather than the public, discusses the dangers of these medications in more detail:

OTC pain medications should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to minimize the potential risk for an adverse event. Patients taking acetaminophen should not exceed the recommended maximum daily dose, while patients taking NSAIDs should not exceed the recommended single or daily dose.

The article also discusses the pharmacist's duty to play a critical role in educating patients of the dangers of OTCs and how to use them safely. To decrease accidental overdoses, pharmacists should encourage people to read labels and learn the ingredients in the product. To prevent using a combination of products containing the same ingredient, pharmacists should provide educational material on generic names. And to prevent dangerous or fatal results, pharmacists should caution people on the misuse and overuse of OTCs.

WOW! What a novel idea; pharmacists educating patients about their medications regardless of whether it's available OTC or requires a prescription! Sarcasm aside, this would be great but there's no way our pharmacists can do this alone. The Consumer Reports article tells us:

Debra Latimore, 52, of Whiting, Ind., told us she's been taking Advil for osteoarthritis pain daily since 2006 without telling her internist. "I forget to list it on doctor forms because it's over-the-counter," she says. "It's not something I think of as a drug."

How are our pharmacists supposed to educate people about OTCs if they don't know who the consumers are? Latimore didn't tell her doctor she was taking an OTC medicine every day, so how is her pharmacist supposed to know about the bottle of ibuprofen she (probably) bought at Wally World? The majority of responsibility must lie with us patients. We have to be the ones to seek out our pharmacist's guidance and we have to be the ones to initiate discussions with them. It's our responsibility to be informed patients and learn all we can so that we use OTCs properly and according to their labels. Way better than my advice though, is Schoolhouse Rocky's great words to live by:

As your body grows bigger,
Your mind must flower,
It's great to learn,
'Cuz knowledge is power!

Migraine and the Energy Independence & Security Act of 2007

2008-05-24T14:53:00.019-04:00

Last year Congress passed the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. This federal law requires incandescent lighting to be phased out in favor of energy efficient bulbs starting in 2012. The law doesn't say that compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are required but because fluorescent, the tube-like bulbs that are mostly found in public places such as offices, schools, and stores, and CFLs, the ones designed for home use, are the most available and less expensive, it's likely that these types of bulbs will be the most used.

Many Migraineurs find that CFLs trigger Migraine attacks. CFLs also affects others who suffer with health conditions such as Epilepsy, Lupus and Autism. As use of CFLs increase, those of us with health conditions will find it very difficult to have a public life; to go to the store or bank, attend school and go to work in offices and factories alike.

Opposing CFLs does not mean that Migraineurs and other people with health concerns are opposed to "Going Green". Of course we are in favor of saving our environment and our planet as much as anyone who's health is not affected by this lighting but we believe that alternatives such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), halogens and improved energy efficient incandescents , would remedy this issue without hurting or endangering our health.

A group of us who write, blog and advocate for Migraine Disease have created a petition asking for an amendment to the Energy Independence & Security Act that emphasizes energy standards and encourages the development of other energy saving technology instead of focusing on the elimination of existing technology. If you feel the same way we do please head over to ipetitions and sign the Protect migraineurs from compact fluorescent bulbs ipetition HERE.

Getting the Correct Information on Migraine Drug Treximet

2008-05-23T03:11:00.008-04:00

I was just over at Migraine News Network reading Raingem's interesting article, "Treximet or TrickThem-et?" She provides us with good information about this new Migraine medication and points us to something:

Debbie who runs Down The Rabbit Hole blog:, has noticed something interesting - a little subversive disinformation campaign as propagated by sloppy journalists and uninformed patients alike. There are plenty of little news blips if you care to search for them that say pretty much the same as this little article: New Drug Could Be Best Migraine Medicine On Market.

I find all this ironic. Two days ago I was reading Migraine news. It seemed that article after article was bullshit, misinformation, unreliable and lies. So when I stumbled on this Treximet article Migraine Sufferers - This New Drug Might Help You on The Real Cougar Woman I started to get mad. This article was filled with inaccurate and misleading information and I couldn't take it anymore, So I did something I usually don't do. I wrote a letter to the author, pointed out the incorrect information and provided her with the correct information. I told her that she didn't have to post my comments but I would like her to fix the stuff that was wrong. She ended up posting my comments instead.

You can read them below ~~or read them in context on The Real Cougar Woman.~~ Since my comments were removed two days after being approved, here's part of the article including the incorrect information in red:

...This month, a new drug is expected to land in pharmacies that combines two existing migraine drugs. It promises to offer relief without the fear of addiction. It's called treximet.
Apparently it works by combining two existing drugs that control two different aspects of migraine headaches. First, it prevents blood vessels in the head from narrowing. Second, it blocks the brain from releasing chemicals that signal pain.
If you are a migraine sufferer ask your doctor if treximent is for you.

My comments in their entirety follows:

Treximet is NOT the combination of two existing Migraine drugs. It combines a Migraine medication with an NSAID. The Migraine medication, Sumatriptan, is a Triptan (technical name is selective serotonin receptor agonists), and is the ingredient found in Imitrex. The NSAID is naproxen sodium, the same ingredient found in the over-the-counter medicine Aleve. This is used for many other conditions. You say "It promises to offer relief without the fear of addiction". Even though it's not very common, NSAID addiction can occur. Additionally, using these products separately and/or together can cause a serious condition for Migraine sufferers called Medication Overuse Headache also known as Rebound Headaches.

I know that all medications including vitamins and supplements have side effects but your article makes it sound as if there are no risks associated with using this medication. Yes, there are benefits of both medications but it should be noted that NSAIDs can be FATAL. It increases heart attack and stroke risk and can be harmful to the liver, kidneys and stomach. NSAIDs can also cause ulcers, bleeding, perforation and other gastrointestinal effects.

You're incorrect to say that this medication prevents blood vessels in the head from narrowing. Treximet does NOT prevent blood vessels in the head from narrowing. During a Migraine attack the blood vessels in the head DILATE. Sumatriptan causes vasoconstriction. This means that this medication does the exact opposite of what you said it does and constricts, or narrows, the blood vessels. You can verify this information on MAGNUM, the same site you cited http://www.migraines.org/treatment/treathis.htm

Treximet is misspelled "treximent" in the last sentence.

Using the phrase "Migraine Headache" is also inaccurate. Migraine is a genetic neurological disease. Migraines are NOT headaches. Headache is just one symptom of a Migraine and there are many other symptoms such as, aura, nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia and vertigo. Some people don't have headaches during a Migraine attack so calling it a "Migraine Headache" is misleading.

I'm not asking you to publish my comment, I'd just like you to fix the misinformation.
Pam
http://pinkpurlgurl.blogspot.com

LPGA Tour Pro Diana D'Alessio Takes Swing at Menstrual Migraines

2008-05-15T12:30:00.008-04:00

PARtnering Against Menstrual Migraine Campaign Will Raise Awareness of Widespread, Treatable Condition

CLIFTON, N.J., May 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour Professional Diana D'Alessio is teaming with Endo Pharmaceuticals and the National Headache Foundation to launch the PARtnering Against Menstrual Migraine campaign, an educational initiative to raise awareness about menstrual migraine and how women can effectively manage this condition. The campaign will feature free migraine screenings with headache specialists and appearances by D'Alessio at information booths during select LPGA events in 2008.
Click HERE to read the entire press release.

For a menstrual migraine tracker, quiz and more information on the condition go to www.partneringagainstmenstrualmigraine.com.

Photo courtesy of Jeremy Brooks

Serotonin Syndrome in the News

2008-05-15T00:36:00.015-04:00

MedlinePlus, a service of the US National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health defines Serotonin Syndrome:

Serotonin syndrome is a life-threatening drug reaction that causes the body to have too much serotonin, a chemical produced by nerve cells.

And cites the cause:

Serotonin Syndrome most often occurs when two drugs that affect the body's level of serotonin are taken together at the same time. The drugs cause too much serotonin to be released or to remain in the brain area.

An example of this is taking a Selective Serotonin Receptor Agonist also known as a Triptan while you are taking a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) or Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). In other words using Imitrex aka Sumatriptan (a Triptan) while taking Prozac (an SSRI) or Cymbalta (an SNRI) can cause Serotonin Syndrome.

It is believed that changes in serotonin is involved in causing Migraine attacks. More about it can be found HERE. This information has been around for a while so.....

Why is Serotonin Syndrome in the news?

In the May 15 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, Georgetown University researchers and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration detail 11 cases of Serotonin Syndrome associated with the use of triptans alone that were reported to the FDA's Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)."

Offie Soldin, an associate professor of medicine and oncology at Georgetown University Medical Center and the study's lead author said:

The FDA has already issued an advisory and an alert that when triptans are used in combination with SSRIs, there is a possibility of serotonin syndrome. The news here is that it doesn't have to be in combination, triptans alone can cause serotonin syndrome

Soldin also stressed that this is very rare and unlike to happen saying:

...you just need to stop taking the drugs when it does happen. If you're taking these medications and you have strange muscular, mental or hyperactivity symptoms, contact your doctor.

More information can be found in this Washington Post article.

How To Integrate Exercise Into a Life Filled With Migraines

2008-05-14T18:43:00.006-04:00

Check out the May 12th edition of the Headache & Migraine Blog Carnival posted over at Diana Lee's site Somebody Heal Me. The topic for this edition is "How to integrate exercise into a life filled with migraines."

Don't know what a blog carnival is? A blog carnival is a collection of links to a variety of a blogs on a central topic. The Headache & Migraine Blog Carnival provides both Headache and Migraine Disease patients and people who blog about headache disorders with unique opportunities to share ideas on topics of particular interest and importance to us. Visit this month's carnival for a collection of informative entries on how other Migraineurs fit exercise into their lives.

Kid NEVER Sleeps!

2008-05-10T19:01:00.010-04:00

Pain keeps me awake a lot and I rarely get more than six hours of sleep at night. After I read about three-year-old Rhett Lamb, I consider my six hours precious.

Rhett NEVER sleeps. I mean NEVER -- not a nap, not a snooze, zero, zilch, nil, nothing EVER. He's been awake for the last three years since the day he was born. Dad gave up his job to take care of him. Mom works extra to pay for his medical bills. Both mom and dad share the night shift because someone has to be awake with him at all times. Doctor's say Rhett can't sleep because of chiari malformation. To learn more about Rhett click HERE.

Pain Medication Does Not Lead to High Risk of Addiction

2008-05-10T01:22:00.008-04:00

Using strong pain medications, including opioids, for long-term, chronic pain puts you at high risk of addiction, RIGHT? Srinivasa Raja, MD, a professor of anesthesiology at Johns Hopkins University Medical School says that is WRONG.

Raja presented the lecture: From Poppies to Pill Popping: Is There a "Middle Way"? at the 27th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Pain Society (APS) Raja reported that less than 3% of all chronic pain sufferers, with no history of drug abuse of any kind, will show signs of abuse or dependence. He urged clinicians not to allow this small percentage to prevent them from prescribing pain medications to patients who are more likely to benefit from them than be hurt by them. Raja also said:

We also are dealing with unfounded accusations in the media that increased prescribing of opioids for severe chronic pain is responsible in large part for reported upswings in the abuse of pain medications

Raja stressed the importance of communication between doctor and patient, the importance of patient monitoring to identify addictive behavior, and the importance of monitoring patients to see if doses can be lowered as pain control improves. He also suggests alternative treatments such as cognitive behavior and physical therapy to supplement pain medication whenever possible.

His lecture asked federal and state regulatory agencies to aim for state-to-state consistency in regulating controlled substances and called for a crack down on illegal internet pharmacies and prescription thefts and forgeries. He applauded teen drug awareness campaigns as a means of preventing this type of drug abuse. Raja's also had a message to the pharmaceutical industry and said:

the key challenge is to match clinical needs for less addicting pain medication with drug development priorities. “There are novel analgesic formulations in various stages of development that we hope can be prioritized and expedited for clinical use

Raja cited two outdated beliefs about pain that were later disproved by scientific evidence. The first, a commentary published in the Journal of the American Medical Association fifty years ago that said cancer patients shouldn't use opioids due to the possible risk of addiction and secondly, the belief, twenty years ago, that infants shouldn't receive anesthesia because they didn’t feel pain. Both beliefs are now abandoned and Raja feels that the fear of addiction in pain management should be abandoned too.

sources: Chronic Pain Meds Unlikely to Cause Addiction and Risks for painkiller abuse do not outweigh benefits in chronic pain

May is Stroke Awareness Month - Do You Know the Warning Signs?

2008-05-09T15:25:00.005-04:00

Did you know Migraine increases your Stroke risk? Information regarding the Migraine - Stroke connection can be found in MAGNUM's article Migraines: Myth Vs. Reality:

According to the New England Journal of Medicine, "migraine can sometimes lead to ischemic stroke and stroke can sometimes be aggravated by or associated with the development of migraine." Twenty-seven percent of all strokes suffered by persons under the age of 45 are caused by Migraine. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in this country. In addition, twenty-five percent of all incidents of cerebral infarction were associated with Migraines, according to the Mayo clinic. Most recently the British Medical Journal reported that after evaluating 14 major Migraine & stroke studies in the U.S. and Canada that Migraineurs are 2.2 times greater risk for stroke than the non-migraine population. That risk goes up to a staggering 8 times more stroke risk for women Migraineurs on the pill!

Can you recognize ALL five correct Stroke symptoms? Can you identify an incorrect Stroke symptom? Do you know when you need to call 9-1-1 when someone appears to be having a Stroke? If you answered "no", you're not alone.

Results of the 2005 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey that was used in 13 states and the District of Columbia (DC) to examine public awareness of Stroke warning symptoms and the importance of seeking emergency care were examined in this week's issue of the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report article Awareness of Stroke Warning Symptoms --- 13 States and the District of Columbia, 2005. Out of 71,994 participants only 16.4% of respondents could recognize all five correct symptoms, identify an incorrect symptom and recognize the need to call 9-1-1.

May is Stroke Awareness Month. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) developed the Know Stroke, Know the Signs. Act in Time campaign to educate the public about recognizing Stroke symptoms. If you don't know these five symptoms, take the time to learn them. If you already know them, teach them to someone else. At the very least, print them and attach them to your refrigerator so that your family can learn them.

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body)
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
Sudden severe headache with no known cause

These five symptoms can also be found HERE.

The NINDS says you may not realize you're having a stroke and you may not be able to call 9-1-1 on your own. The people around you may not know you're having a Stroke and just think you're confused. Don't waste precious time. Arriving at the hospital within 60 minutes after experiencing symptoms can greatly reduce Stroke damage. If you or someone you know is having a Stroke call 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY.

Migraine and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) linked?

2008-05-08T09:58:00.006-04:00

A small study has shown that Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may be more common in Migraine sufferers than in the general population. 32 of the participants had less than 15 Migraines per month and 28 had more than 15 per month. The study showed PTSD was more frequent in those experiencing more than 15 Migraine attacks per month and concluded that PTSD may be a risk factor for Migraine.
To read the article click HERE.

A study last year showed that almost one in every five US soldiers returning Iraq was being diagnosed with Migraine. Questionnaires completed by almost 2,200 US Army soldiers within the first 90 days of returning from a year of combat duty in Iraq were evaluated. 19% were found to suffer from Migraine, 32% tested positive for depression, 22% met the standard for PTSD, and 13% tested positive for anxiety. 50% of those who suffered with Migraines and 27% of those who did not were also clinically depressed. 39% of the Migraine sufferers and 18% of non-Migraine sufferers also had PTSD. 22% of those with Migraine and 10% of those without experienced anxiety disorders.

The study author Maj. Jay C. Erickson, M.D., a neurologist at Madigan Army Medical Center at Fort Lewis, in Tacoma, WA said that this information should serve as a wake-up call to both military and civilian doctors to evaluate for psychological troubles when a patient suffers with Migraine.
Click HERE to read this article.

Technorati Tags: post-traumatic stress disorder, ptsd, migraine, headache, depression, anxiety,

Migraine at the American Academy of Neurology 60th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Chicago

2008-04-21T13:58:00.005-04:00

Here's a synopsis of Migraine research that was presented at the American Academy of Neurology 60th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Chicago April 12–19, 2008.

Migraine frequency linked with women's risk of cardiovascular disease
CHICAGO – New research shows women who have weekly migraine are significantly more likely to have a stroke than those with fewer migraines or no migraine at all, but those with lower migraine frequency may face increased risk of heart attacks. The research was presented at the American Academy of Neurology 60th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Chicago, April 12–19, 2008...
To read the entire article click HERE.

Children with migraine at increased risk of sleep disturbances
CHICAGO – Children with migraine are more likely to have sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea and lack of sleep, than children without migraine, according to research on the effects of headaches on children’s sleep patterns was presented at the American Academy of Neurology 60th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Chicago, April 12–19, 2008...
To read the entire article click HERE.

Overuse of codeine, oxycodone and barbiturates increases risk of chronic migraine
CHICAGO – People who overuse barbiturates and opioids, such as codeine, butalbital, and oxycodone, to treat migraine are at an increased risk of developing chronic migraine, according to research that was presented at the American Academy of Neurology 60th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Chicago, April 12–19, 2008. People with chronic migraine have headaches on 15 or more days a month...
To read the entire article click HERE.

New Hope for Migraine Sufferers: Optinose Nasal Delivery of Sumatriptan Proves as Effective as Invasive Subcutantaneous Injection
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--At the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting, Optinose, the Norwegian drug delivery specialists, today presented Phase I data that could lead to faster, effective and less invasive relief for migraine sufferers. The recently completed trial first demonstrated that Sumatriptan powder delivered intranasally using OptiNose’s 2nd generation device has a rapid onset of action and is as effective as subcutaneously administered Sumatriptan in preventing GTN Challenge Induced EEG changes in migraine sufferers...
To read the entire article click HERE.

For more information about the American Academy of Neurology, visit www.aan.com.

Discussing Your Condition With Your Kids

2008-04-19T04:10:00.014-04:00

Freelance writer, journalist, and former award-winning radio reporter, Lisa A. Phillips, has written an article about talking to your kids about your neurological condition (such as Migraine, Epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Head Injury, Muscular Dystrophy) for the March/April 2008 Edition of Neurology Now. Phillips says that even if your kids are too young to comprehend everything about your disease, you probably can't conceal it from them. This article discusses the areas below in detail to ensure open communication.

Be Honest
Pick the Right Moment
Stay Calm
Use Their Questions as Your Guide
Don't Overwhelm Your Child
Accentuate the Positive
Trust Your Child Accept You
Prepare for Emergencies
Know that Kids Want to Help
Encourage Peer Support
Never Blame Your Child for Your Disorder

Phillips stresses that when talking to young children you should keep it simple. Talking to your older child may be more difficult. Children as young as 9 or 10 often ask about hereditary factors and you should be prepared to address this. Most older kids know how to use the internet and may research your disease on their own. The problem (as most of us with any disease knows) is that a lot of times it's difficult to tell the difference between credible information and misinformation. The author suggests that in addition to talking to your older child, you teach them how to recognize sites that provide accurate information, direct them to reliable sites and monitor what sites they've been visiting.

To read the entire article click HERE.