Can caffeine help in relieving my migraine attacks at 27?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 27 years old and have been experiencing migraines since my teenage years. The throbbing pain usually strikes one side of my head, and bright lights and loud noises only intensify the agony, often accompanied by nausea. Triptans provide some relief, but I am experiencing these attacks five to six times a month now, which means I am missing work days.

I am curious about the effectiveness of the new monthly migraine injections. Please tell me;

What are the side effects of migraine injections?
Does caffeine provide any relief, or does it exacerbate the situation?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

You are dealing with classic migraine attacks, and having them as frequently as five to six times a month definitely affects quality of life. Triptans (serotonin receptor agonists) can work well for acute relief, but when migraines become this frequent, preventive treatment is often recommended to reduce how often and how severe the attacks are. The newer monthly injections you mentioned are called CGRP (Calcitonin gene-related peptide) monoclonal antibodies, such as Erenumab, Fremanezumab, and Galcanezumab.

These medications target a protein involved in triggering migraine pain and inflammation, and studies have shown that many patients experience a 50 to 70 percent reduction in migraine frequency after a few months of use. They are given once a month or once every three months, depending on the brand, and most people tolerate them very well.

The common side effects are usually mild, like

Soreness at the injection site.
Occasional constipation.

However, serious side effects are rare. These injections are generally a good option if oral preventive medicines such as Propranolol (a beta-blocker), Topiramate (an anticonvulsant drug), or Amitriptyline (a tricyclic antidepressant) have not worked or caused side effects.

As for caffeine, it can help some people by constricting blood vessels and relieving early migraine pain, but regular or excessive caffeine intake can also lead to rebound headaches when it wears off, especially if you drink it daily and suddenly stop. It is best to use caffeine sparingly, such as in a single cup of coffee at the onset of a migraine, but avoid overuse.

You should discuss these new treatment options with your neurologist to see if you’re a good candidate for CGRP therapy and also review lifestyle triggers such as sleep patterns, stress, and diet, as combining medical and lifestyle management gives the best long-term control.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.

Can caffeine help in relieving my migraine attacks at 27?

Considering new migraine treatments?