Corticosteroids for Cluster Headaches

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Topic Overview

Corticosteroids (such as prednisone or dexamethasone) are referred to as "transitional" medicines for the treatment of cluster headaches, because they are sometimes used to break a cycle of cluster headaches. They are paired with medicines that stop (abortive) or prevent (prophylactic) additional headaches during a headache cycle. Often, within 2 to 4 days after starting treatment with corticosteroids, you will become headache-free. By the time the corticosteroids are stopped-their use is often tapered within 6 to 8 weeks of starting and then discontinued-the medicines used to prevent cluster headaches, such as verapamil, have taken effect.

Corticosteroids are not used over a long period of time because they can cause serious side effects, including:

  • Weight gain.
  • High blood pressure.
  • High blood sugar levels.
  • Cataracts.
  • Osteoporosis.
  • Stomach ulcers.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff

Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine

Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical ReviewerColin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology

Current as ofOctober 14, 2016