Beyond Pain: The Effects of OnabotulinumtoxinA Therapy on Sensitization and Interictal Symptoms in Chronic Migraine

Toxins (Basel). 2024 Apr 23;16(5):203. doi: 10.3390/toxins16050203.

Abstract

Chronic migraine is a disease with a high burden on patients from both a working and quality of life point of view. The pathophysiology of this subtype of migraine is due to several factors, such as medication overuse. Nevertheless, the detrimental recurring of headache attacks with central and peripheral sensitization plays a central role and explains some additional symptoms complained about by these patients even in the interictal phase. OnabotulinumtoxinA is a therapy indicated for chronic migraine since it has proven to reduce peripheral sensitization, showing even efficacy on central symptoms. The aim of this narrative review is to present the current evidence regarding the effect of OnabotulinumtoxinA on sensitization and interictal symptoms.

Keywords: central sensitization; chronic migraine; interictal burden; interictal symptoms; migraine; onabotulinumtoxinA.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A* / therapeutic use
  • Chronic Disease
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A
  • onabotulinum toxin A

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.