Dosage of beta blockers for migraine

The necessary dosage of beta blockers for the prevention of migraine attacks depends mainly on which beta blocker is used. In general, a comparatively high dosage is necessary to achieve the desired effect. At the beginning of treatment, however, a gradual increase in dosage is necessary to prevent side effects such as a drop in blood pressure and circulatory disorders.

Each preparation has a different dosage range in which the most suitable dosage must be determined individually. In the case of the beta-blocker bisoprolol, this range is between five and ten milligrams. Metoprolol has a preventive effect on migraine attacks in the range of 50 to 200 milligrams. Studies have shown that propranolol is effective in the range of 40 to 240 milligrams.

Can I take beta blockers even if my blood pressure is low?

Beta-blockers are usually the drug of choice for the prophylaxis of migraine attacks. However, another effect of beta blockers is that they lower blood pressure. Therefore, beta blockers are not recommended for patients who already have low blood pressure or circulatory problems.

There are other alternative drugs available for the prevention of migraine attacks that do not affect blood pressure. For patients with normal blood pressure values, individual consideration must be given to whether the use of beta blockers is possible and sensible. The physician will make a recommendation based on an overview of all factors affecting the patient. If necessary, it is advisable to start a migraine prophylaxis by regularly measuring and recording the blood pressure values.

Do the beta-blockers have an effect on sport?

Beta blockers usually reduce the maximum physical performance. Particularly in endurance and strength sports, taking beta-blockers for migraines can therefore lead to reduced performance. However, this is felt differently by each person. Since endurance sports in particular have a very positive effect on migraine and also prevent attacks, it must therefore be considered individually whether the use of beta blockers is sensible or rather hindering.

Side effects of beta blockers

The possible side effects of beta-blockers, which are used to prevent migraine attacks, correspond to the general side effects of this group of drugs. Due to the blood pressure-lowering effect of beta-blockers, circulatory problems often occur, which can manifest themselves in the form of dizziness or fatigue. Occasionally there may also be a drop in blood sugar levels, so that diabetics who inject insulin should rather not use beta blockers.

Rarely, but also possible, is a narrowing of the airways caused by the beta blockers. Patients with asthma or other lung diseases should therefore also not be treated with beta blockers. Rare are also side effects such as gastrointestinal complaints. In men, erectile dysfunction – usually referred to as “impotence” – can occur in rare cases as a result of treatment with beta blockers.