Propranolol in the management of recurrent migraine: a meta-analytic review

Headache. 1991 May;31(5):333-40. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.1991.hed3105333.x.

Abstract

We used meta-analytic statistical techniques to synthesize findings from studies that evaluated propranolol HCI for the prevention of recurrent migraine (2,403 treated patients). The modal migraine sufferer treated in these studies was a female, about 37 years of age, who suffered from common (rather than classical) migraines and reported a 17-year history of problem migraines. The modal treatment was 160 mg. propranolol per day. Meta-analysis revealed that, on average, propranolol yielded a 44% reduction in migraine activity when daily headache recordings were used to assess treatment outcome, and a 65% reduction in migraine activity when less conservative measures (e.g., clinical ratings of improvement, global patient reports) were used. Meta-analysis thus revealed substantial support for short-term effectiveness of propranolol. However, little information was available concerning the long-term effectiveness of propranolol.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Meta-Analysis

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic
  • Migraine Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Migraine Disorders / physiopathology
  • Migraine Disorders / prevention & control
  • Prognosis
  • Propranolol / adverse effects
  • Propranolol / therapeutic use*
  • Recurrence

Substances

  • Propranolol