Headache

Headache

    

• D
  Gaist, I Tsiropoulos, SH Sindrup et al [Odense Univ,
  Denmark]
  
  Inappropriate Use of
  Sumatriptan : Population Based Register and Interview
  Study
  
  
  BMJ
  316-1352-1353, 1998
  
    
  
  Sumatriptan
  succinate is a commonly prescribed headache drug in
  Denmark. The appropriateness of the use of this drug
  was assessed in a population-based interview study.
  
    
  
  The
  standard antimigraine drugs when taken in excessive
  amounts, are now known to either cause or sustain
  headache. Quite a few patients overuse sumatriptan and
  may in future, overuse the newer triptans as well.
  
     
  
  The
  study points out that, many overusers were using the
  medication for inappropriate types of headaches,
  namely tension-type and drug-induced headaches.
  
     
  
  Physicians
  must understand both the precise indications for the
  use of triptans and the danger of prescribing
  immoderate amounts. The quantity and frequency of use
  of these medications must be plainly specified to.