Migraine Sufferers Turn to Supplements for Relief

Many individuals grappling with migraines are exploring alternative treatments. A recent survey sheds light on which supplements are most favored and why.

Most Popular Supplements

Almost half of migraine sufferers surveyed—49 percent—reported taking supplements, according to findings published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine. Another 40% had tried supplements in the past, while just 11% had never used them.

The 2022 online survey, conducted by the University of Otago, gathered responses from 530 individuals, predominantly women (82%). Participants were recruited through social media and organizations such as the Migraine Foundation Aotearoa New Zealand.

Magnesium and riboflavin emerged as the frontrunners. During the survey, 42% of respondents were using magnesium and 22% using riboflavin for migraine prevention.

Coenzyme Q10 was next (7%), followed by the botanicals feverfew (3%) and butterbur (1%).

Researchers noted the popularity of magnesium and riboflavin is likely because of their well-established scientific backing and safety.

Headache Frequency and Supplement Use

The survey revealed a link between headache frequency and supplement use. People who experienced headaches on 15 or more days per month were significantly more likely to be currently using a supplement.

Only two per cent of people with high-frequency headache had never used a supplement for migraine, compared with 13 per cent of people with less frequent headache, the researchers reported.

Reasons for Discontinuation

Even though magnesium is widely used, it also had the highest rate of discontinued use, with 19% stopping due to perceived ineffectiveness and 12% due to side effects.

Perceived lack of effectiveness was the primary reason for discontinuing all five supplements.

Interest in Trying Supplements

Among those surveyed, coenzyme Q10 sparked the most interest: 49% of respondents who had never used it expressed a desire to try it. Butterbur followed, with 45% interested.

While 40+% were willing to try butterbur and feverfew, a large percentage of respondents also said they had never used and did not want to use these two supplements.

For instance, nearly half (47%) stated they have never used and did not want to use butterbur.

Safety and Efficacy Considerations

The lower usage of butterbur may be linked to concerns about liver toxicity; some countries have withdrawn butterbur products from the market. Feverfew is not recommended during pregnancy.

The commonly used supplements among respondents were the ones with the best evidence and safety profiles (magnesium and riboflavin).

Supplements that have at least some evidence for effectiveness in migraine prevention include magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), coenzyme Q10, feverfew and butterbur, the researchers added.

Other supplements used by respondents included omega 3, vitamin D3, iron, vitamin C, lysine, and multivitamins.

It’s important to note that the American Migraine Foundation emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions with medications (American Migraine Foundation).