Flurbiprofen in the prophylaxis of migraine

ABSTRACT

Flurbiprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with effects on prostaglandin synthesis, platelet serotonin release, and beta-endorphin, was studied for efficacy in migraine prophylaxis. Twenty-three patients completed the 20-week, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover trial. Flurbiprofen, in a dose of 100 mg twice daily, and placebo were each given for 8 weeks, with a 2-week "washout" period between the treatment periods. Flurbiprofen significantly reduced migraine intensity (P < .05), total hours with migraine (P < .015), and the dosing frequency of relief medication (P < .015). Total hours with migraine decreased by 41%, and the use of relief medication decreased by 31%. The reduction in migraine frequency did not reach statistical significance (P < .10). Adverse effects were infrequent. Based on the overall improvement in migraine parameters, flurbiprofen can be recommended for use in migraine prophylaxis.