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Prevention of Migraine with Olmesartan in Patients
With Hypertension/Prehypertension
Charles JA, Jotkowitz S, Byrd LH.
Posted: May 2006  
Headache 2006;46:503-507

Objective:   To explore the effects of olmesartan on frequency and severity of migraine attacks in patients with comorbid hypertension and prehypertension.

Background:   A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study with a total of 60 patients has demonstrated the efficacy and safety of the angiotension II receptor blocker candesartan in migraine prophylaxis. We study the potential efficacy and tolerability of olmesartan in preventing migraine in patients with hypertension and prehypertension.

Design/Methods:   Twenty-four adults, aged 27 through 76, with either hypertension or prehypertension, were included in this open-label study. Participants suffered from migraines (diagnosed according to International Headache Society classifications) for at least 3 months. Patients were treated with 10 to 40 mg. of olmesartan per various observational periods of at least 3 months. Frequency and severity were recorded by office visits or by telephonic interview.

Results:   Patients reported an 82.5% average reduction in the frequency of migraine attacks. Patients also experienced a 45% average reduction in the severity of migraine attacks measured on a numeric pain scale of 1 to 10. The only undesired effect was dizziness or presyncope. No serious adverse events occurred and no adverse event caused a premature termination. Two patients had no reduction in headache frequency, intensity, and blood pressure.

Conclusions:  The favorable results and low rate of adverse effects, in this open migraine prevention study in patients with hypertension or prehypertension, are similar to results of the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study in patients taking candesartan. Olmesartan shows a potential as an effective and well-tolerated migraine prophylactic agent for patients with comorbid hypertension and prehypertension.