Health Library Beta-Blockers for Migraine HeadachesFrom Healthwise

Beta-blockers relax blood vessels. Although the cause of migraines is not well understood, it may have something to do with the blood vessels in the brain.

Beta-blockers are preventive medications that are used to prevent migraine headaches in some people who get them regularly.

Propranolol and timolol have been proven to work to prevent migraines. There is some evidence that atenolol, metoprolol, and nadolol may help prevent migraines, but the evidence is not as strong as it is for propranolol and timolol.¹

Side effects of beta-blockers include:

• Sleep problems and vivid dreams.
• Memory problems.
• Fatigue.
• Depression.
• Erection problems (impotence).

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

Beta-blockers may require close monitoring if you have asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, or high cholesterol. Some beta-blockers may make symptoms of lung disease and asthma worse and may affect cholesterol levels as well as how the body responds to low blood sugar.

These medications are also used to treat high blood pressure.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Citations

1. Snow V, et al. (2002). Pharmacologic management of acute attacks of migraine and prevention of migraine headaches. Annals of Internal Medicine, 137(10): 840–849.

Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: July 3, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.