Patients with chronic or intractable headaches often benefit from an infusion of a series of medications at one time. It’s done as outpatient therapy for four hours a day, three days in a row. One goal is to “reset” the brain. Over time, chronic migraines can lead to changes in the brain that cause symptoms to become worse. By stopping the headaches and decreasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters, there may be decreased levels of inflammation and then an end of the cycle of internal triggers and inflammation leading to pain awareness. Another benefit of infusion therapy is to learn which medications provide the best response for a patient.
We utilized the following treatments: IV magnesium sulfate, dexamethasone, valproate sodium, lidocaine, dihydroergotamine, promethazine, Zofran, and Toradol. Medications will be adjusted according to patient allergies and medical history.
Patient Guidelines for Headache Infusions
Wear comfortable clothes.
You may bring a drink or snack if you wish. Please do not bring beverages containing caffeine.
Cell phones MUST be turned off during infusion time.
You may use a portable music device if you wear earbuds.
You will need a driver to take you home after the infusion is complete. You will be required to provide us with the name of your driver on the date of service. They are permitted to wait in lobby, but due to the privacy act they are not permitted to stay in the infusion center with you.
The environment in the infusion center will be quiet with only ambient lighting. Your personal computer, tablet and phone are prohibited from being used during the procedure.
NO children are permitted to accompany you.
If you are diabetic and require insulin during the time of your infusion, please bring it with you.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications do NOT take them 12 hours prior to the infusion.: Amerge, Axert, Frova, Imitrex, Maxalt, Relpax, Sumavel, Treximet or Zomig. This includes oral, nasal or needleless injectable version of these drugs. All other medications may be taken as regularly scheduled.