Evaluating Modern Therapeutic Interventions for Migraine Management: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review evaluates the efficacy and safety of contemporary migraine treatments, synthesizing evidence from recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The focus is on both pharmacological interventions, such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies and non-specific oral migraine preventives, and non-pharmacological approaches like myofascial release. Through a detailed examination of the studies, this review identifies superior strategies for acute and preventive migraine management, assessing their impact on patient-reported outcomes and determining the prevalence of associated adverse events. Findings suggest that while CGRP monoclonal antibodies show promise as first-line treatments due to their efficacy and safety, myofascial release offers considerable benefits for pain and disability in tension-type and cervicogenic headaches. Challenges such as the variability in individual response and potential side effects emphasize the need for personalized treatment plans. This review underscores the importance of integrating new therapeutic discoveries into clinical practice to enhance the quality of care for migraine sufferers.

Keywords: acute migraine management; cgrp antagonists; migraine disorders; myofascial release; non-pharmacological treatments; pharmacological treatments.

Figure 1. The PRISMA flowchart illustrating the study selection process.

PRISMA: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses