Doc, I avoid as many generics as possible. I get 50mg's Imitrex and cut them in half. I then take 25mg's at the onset. Once in a while I need a second half; but not often. I had agreed to take the generic so my doctor then could fax my insurance the need for the "brand" name only. The insurance now covers the Imitrex.

I had enough left of the Imitrex so when the generic was prescribed, i was able to continue with Imitrex and a sufficient time elapsed so the doctor could fax the need for "brand" only.

I went off the Midrin and Bufferin, aspirin; anything for headaches, etc. for a few months. The pain was awful; but I was so determined to get these headaches under control and out of anything that might remain "rebound".

Gerry

There are about 8 approved triptans to treat an acute migraine and, if one doesnt help you just try one of the others. Maxalt has a very rapid onset of action but has a high rebound rate so those who tend to have a long headaches or several days of triggers (like a period related migraine0, it may not be a good choice. With any acute treatment, the soon eryou use it the more effective it will be so never hold off taking if you think it is a migraine.

Botox can be an effective preventive choice but does need to be repeated every 3 months to remain effective (sometimes it begins to last for 4 or 5 months). Like all preventive therapies, you can do more than one at a time. Biofeedback was mentioned and is quite effective when prtacticed regularly. Stress managment/relaxation works. All the lifestyle changes- better sleep, daily exercise, regular healthy meals, reduce/eliminate caffeine can all be important. Recent guidelines showed many supplements very effective, including magnesium, riboflavin, feverfew, Coenzyme Q10, and butterbur. Be aggressicve with preventive efforts- it can be so worthwhile!

Best wishes on a good response to the Botox.

Can I ask what dr did your Botox and if you've kept up with it? I've had mixed results and am looking for a new dr in the area to try with hoping for better results. Thanks!

Hi Abrouda, welcome.

Would you mind (for the benefit of members/visitors seeking information) elucidating what you meant by "mixed results"?

Doc

That was 5-15-12. I wish that Lisa (Happygeek) had returned to follow-up; I think it would have been useful to others either way.

That was 5-18-12. Since that time (about a year ago, IIRC) Maxalt (rizatriptan) HAS gone generic. A quick search (subject to error) indicates the price per 10 mg pill is around $5 generic vs. $37 brand. Of course prices will vary depending on insurance, pharmacy, etc.

Doc