Posted by Ty (192.77.198.2) on January 21, 2002 at 21:55:33:
In Reply to: Newbie posted by Sam Droff on January 21, 2002 at 21:08:34:
You sound a lot like me. I have been battling these stupid things for nearly 7 years now and with a better understanding of what works and what doesn't they ahve become more of a nusience (spelling?) than the devil.
I have finally found a great Neurologist that treats only headaches. As a pharmaceutical rep I know that some docs are better than others.
This years cycle I was spinning out of control with 5-10 CH's per day. They hit me hardest over Christmas. I had my FAP doc call me in a prednisone script to get them under control. It worked! But we all know the bad things that can happen from long term use. (1-2 months won't hurt though)
Upon getting back from vacation 2 weeks ago I went to see my new Neurologist to find out more about Verapamil (calcium channel blocker). He actually has been using Verapamil 1st line for years with CH sufferers and has a better than 80% success rate in preventing the CH's from manifesting into the beast.
I started the Verapamil 7 days ago (you have to build up to an effective dose) and at the same time tappering down the prednisone. Last night I took a full dose of Verapamil and only 5 mg's of prednisone. Last night and today I have been completely pain free for the 1st time in 6 weeks.
Full strength is 240 mg twice per day (480 total). Contrary to what anyone might tell you, Verapamil is extremely same both for short term and long term use if taken correctly. I hope you try it and it works for you.