Mutterkraut als prophylaktische phytotherapie bei migräne: N-of-1-studie zum individuellen wirksamkeitsnachweis

Translated title of the contribution: Feverfew as preventive therapy for migraine: N-of-1-trial for verification of individual efficacy

J. M. Träder*

*Corresponding author for this work
4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Introduction: There are several substances available which are used for prophylaxis in patients suffering from migraine. To test the effects of second choice drugs (e.g. in case of side-effects of first-line substances) reliably, n-of-1-trial on a single patient is one viable option. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.) is a plant of the family of chrysanthemum. It is known as well under 'wrong chamomile' and can be used for prophylaxis of migraine. Material and Methods: 100 mg extract of feverfew (verum) and 100 mg lactose (placebo) were manufactured in identical caps for a single female patient and taken for two weeks each. After this time, both substances were taken in reverse order. The patient documented on a daily basis whether she had headache and noted the intensity of the pain. The experimental assembly was planned in a double-blind design. Results: During placebo intake, the patient suffered from 3.0 attacks of migraine on a weekly average, while verum (feverfew) reduced the number of attacks to 1.5 per week. During placebo intensity of migraine attacks averaged 3.0 units on a Likkert Scale (0 = no pain, 6 = maximal conceivable pain), during verum the respective value was 1.6. The pain intensity was approximately twice as high while taking placebo compared to verum. Conclusion: Use of feverfew showed clear efficacy in this patient on the basis of an experimental n-of-1-trial. Reduction of attack rate and pain intensity alike was over 50%.

Translated title of the contributionFeverfew as preventive therapy for migraine: N-of-1-trial for verification of individual efficacy
Original languageGerman
JournalZeitschrift fur Allgemeinmedizin
Volume83
Issue number6
Pages (from-to)238-241
Number of pages4
ISSN0937-6801
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 06.2007

Research Areas and Centers

  • Research Area: Center for Population Medicine and Public Health (ZBV)

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