From the Guidelines
Magnesium glycinate is the most suitable form of magnesium for migraine prevention due to its high bioavailability and gentle effect on the digestive system. When considering magnesium supplementation for migraines, it's essential to prioritize the most recent and highest-quality evidence available. According to the 2023 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Department of Defense clinical practice guideline for the management of headache 1, there is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against any specific medication over another for the prevention of migraine headache. However, magnesium has been shown to be effective in preventing migraines by relaxing blood vessels, reducing neuronal excitability, and blocking pain-transmitting chemicals in the brain.
Some key points to consider when taking magnesium for migraines include:
- A typical recommended dosage is 400-600mg daily, taken with food and divided into two doses if needed to improve tolerance.
- Magnesium citrate is a good alternative, though it may cause loose stools in some people.
- Consistency is key - it may take 1-3 months of regular supplementation to notice significant benefits.
- If you're prone to digestive issues, start with a lower dose (around 200mg) and gradually increase.
- Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you have kidney problems or take medications that might interact with magnesium.
It's also important to note that the guideline recommends a patient-centered approach to headache management, taking into account individual preferences, comorbid conditions, and values 1. Therefore, it's crucial to work with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.
From the Research
Magnesium and Migraine Treatment
- Magnesium deficiency has been linked to migraine pathogenesis, and supplementation has shown effectiveness in alleviating migraine symptoms 2.
- A study found that treatment with a proprietary supplement containing magnesium, riboflavin, and Q10 reduced migraine frequency and symptoms, and improved patient evaluation of efficacy compared to placebo 3.
- Magnesium has been used in migraine prophylaxis and treatment, and its potential mechanisms include reducing spreading cortical depression, vascular changes, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation 2, 4.
Forms of Magnesium for Migraine
- Transdermal magnesium delivery has been suggested as a potential method for migraine prevention and treatment 4.
- Oral magnesium supplementation has been used in various studies, including a randomized, placebo-controlled trial that showed a significant reduction in migraine symptoms 3.
Combination Therapies
- A combination of magnesium, riboflavin, and Q10 has been shown to be effective in reducing migraine symptoms and improving patient evaluation of efficacy 3.
- Other alternative agents, including feverfew and melatonin, have also been suggested as potential therapies for migraine prevention and treatment 5.
Key Findings
- Magnesium deficiency is a common condition that can contribute to migraine pathogenesis 2, 4.
- Magnesium supplementation has been shown to be effective in alleviating migraine symptoms, both acutely and chronically 2.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the role of magnesium in migraine treatment and prevention 6, 2.