MigraineMind research summary
Acute migraine treatments in patients above age 65.
Headache | 2026
ReviewSummary
Migraine is common and disabling in older adults. However, research on treatment options for those over 65 years is limited. This age group often faces unique challenges, including special considerations for management. Factors like age-related pharmacokinetic changes and comorbidities can complicate treatment. Older patients also have a higher risk of medication-related side effects. This narrative review discusses the current acute treatments available for migraines. It emphasizes the importance of assessing vascular risks, polypharmacy, and kidney function. The review also highlights delayed gastric emptying and impaired liver metabolism as significant factors. The authors analyzed relevant studies from PubMed and Google Scholar between February and March 2025. They provide a breakdown of medication classes, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and triptans. Effective migraine management in older adults requires understanding evidence, addressing gaps, and promoting shared decision-making. More data and guidelines are necessary for informed treatment decisions. Clinical relevance: This research highlights the need for careful migraine management in older adults, considering unique challenges and potential risks.
Key Learning Points
- Migraine is a common issue in older adults, but treatment options for this age group are not well-studied.
- Older patients may experience unique challenges due to age-related changes and existing health conditions.
- Medications can have more side effects in older adults, making careful management essential.
- Factors like delayed gastric emptying and impaired liver function can affect how medications work in older patients.
- Effective treatment requires understanding current research and involving patients in the decision-making process.
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Original research
Read the original publication and review its full methods and findings on PubMed.
MigraineMind is an educational resource designed to complement—not replace—the original scientific literature or clinical judgement. This page is an AI-generated summary of the available paper information and may contain errors. Please consult the original publication.
