Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Migraine Prevention in Adolescents: A Pilot Open‐Label Study

• DOI: 10.1111/head.13284
• Publication Date: 2018-03-12T15:00:40Z
• Authors: Samantha L. Irwin; William Qubty; I. Elaine Allen; Irene Patniyot; Peter J. Goadsby; Amy A. Gelfand
• Keywords: Tolerability; Open label

Objective To assess the feasibility, tolerability, and patient acceptability of single‐pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS) for migraine prevention in adolescents an open‐label pilot study. Background Migraine is common can be disabling. Well tolerated preventative therapies that are safe effective needed. Methods This was prospective feasibility study sTMS aged 12‐17 years. Participants used twice daily a fashion, as well additional pulses needed acutely. A 4‐week baseline run‐in period (weeks 1‐4) followed by 12‐week treatment period. Feasibility primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included tolerability acceptability, change headache days, number moderate/severe days acute medication use, PedMIDAS (headache disability) scores between third month 13‐16). Results Twenty‐one participants enrolled. Nineteen completed run‐in, 12 Using proved feasible acceptable with overall high compliance once administration streamlined. Initially, preventive treatment, were asked to give 2 pulses, wait 15 minutes, then daily. 15‐minute delay challenging adolescents, particularly on school therefore dropped. Study completion rate went from 4/13 (31%) 7/8 (88%) this made, P = .024. On average, device preventively 22 24 over 28‐day block. There no serious adverse events. Two reported mild discomfort use. Conclusion appears feasible, well‐tolerated, nonpharmacologic adolescents. In designing future trials streamlined will essential minimize drop‐out. Efficacy needs assessed larger trial.