Flunarizine in Prophylaxis of Childhood Migraine: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study

A recent study investigated flunarizine's effectiveness in preventing childhood migraines. Seventy children participated in this 8-month double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. After four weeks without medication, 35 children received flunarizine and 35 received a placebo. Each treatment lasted 12 weeks, followed by a 4-week washout period. The two groups then switched treatments for another 12 weeks. Sixty-three children completed the trial successfully. Results showed flunarizine significantly reduced headache frequency and average duration. In group A, the benefits continued after switching to placebo. Five children in group B stopped the placebo due to ineffectiveness. Two children in group A discontinued flunarizine due to excessive daytime sedation and lack of effectiveness. The main side effects included daytime sedation and weight gain. Overall, flunarizine proved effective for childhood migraine treatment without serious side effects over the study's duration. Clinical relevance: This research supports flunarizine as a safe and effective migraine prevention option for children.