Migraines linked to interferon-β treatment of multiple sclerosis

Migraine headache is now emerging as a previously under-recognized side effect of interferon-β, the most commonly used therapy for relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). We describe an MS patient who developed migraine headaches, which followed a specific pattern coincident with interferon-β administration. The frequency and severity of these migraines escalated and seemed to culminate in an MS exacerbation. Since initiation of migraine prophylaxis with daily amitriptyline, our patient reported a significant decrease in the frequency and severity of her migraines on interferon. It has been postulated that migraine headaches may trigger MS relapse. If so, migraine prophylaxis in MS patients, especially those treated with interferon-β, is of paramount importance. Migraine headaches can be a significant source of disability. Identifying and treating migraines in MS patients serves to enhance their function and reduce disability.