Abstract
Attacks of menstrual migraine (MRM) are more resistant to treatment, longer, and recur more frequently than other migraine types. Although naratriptan, with the longest half-life, seems suitable for MRM, few studies show its efficacy. We analyzed data from 16 patients with MRM who met the diagnostic criteria of the international classifi cation of headache disorders, 2nd edition (ICHD-II), and evaluated the adherence, efficacy, and adverse effects of naratriptan 2.5 mg as an acute treatment for MRM. The adherence and efficacy rates were both 14/16 (87.5%). No patients experienced serious adverse effects. However, two patients could not continue treatment, one because of nausea and vomiting, and the other from a slower action of naratriptan in comparison to other triptans. These two patients used other triptans properly in different situations. Naratriptan may be effective and well-tolerated for the acute treatment of MRM, although further evaluation in larger controlled trials is needed. Educating patients in the appropriate use of different types of triptans is important.
