|  | Conditions Treatments | Migraines

Qvar for Migraine Treatment

QVAR is an inhaled steroid medication used to treat asthma. Also called Beclomethasone, this drug works by reducing inflammation in the bronchia and lungs of asthma patients. It is best used to treat patients with chronic asthma, as its effects take a few weeks of regular treatment to show substantial improvement. Therefore QVAR should not be used to treat acute asthma attacks.

  1. How QVAR Works

    • The active ingredient in QVAR, beclomethasone dipropionate, is a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. This is key in the treatment of asthma. Inflammation of bronchial tubes and smaller respiratory pathways are the cause of asthma's major symptoms. Regular treatment with QVAR can reduce wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath in asthma patients.

    Migraine Basics

    • Migraines are a painful and common condition; approximately 28 million Americans currently suffer from migraines. Migraines are characterized by throbbing headaches, extreme sensitivity to light, and nausea. Some patients also report seeing auras and other mild sensory hallucinations while suffering a migraine attack.

      Migraines can be caused by fatigue, emotional stress, caffeine, alcohol, or unknown factors. The biological root of migraines is somewhat mysterious; researchers are still trying to pin down the exact mechanism of this condition. Some studies show that when a migraine occurs, blood vessels constrict rapidly and severely, followed by a rapid dilation. This releases unnatural levels of certain compounds in the brain, including serotonin and prostaglandins, which can cause inflammation in the brain. This inflammation is thought to cause the pulsing, painful sensations of a migraine.

    Clinical Information

    • There is no clinical evidence suggesting that QVAR is an effective treatment fIor migraines. In fact, headaches are a noted side effect of using a QVAR inhaler. If you do not suffer from asthma, do not inhale QVAR medication; it is only intended to treat the inflammation of the bronchial tree and lungs.

    Altermatives

    • If you suffer from migraines, several drugs exist that may address your symptoms. Look for Midrin or Maxalt if you're suffering from a migraine. These drugs work by controlling the dilation of the blood vessels in the brain. By reducing them to a normal size before the inflammatory compounds inundate your system, painful migraine symptoms may be avoided. These drugs, only work, however, if taken at the first signs of a migraine. Certain medications, such as Topamax, can be taken regularly to help prevent future migraines. Of course, see your doctor for advice and a prescription for the medication that's right for you, based on your individual situation.

Migraines - Related Articles