Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To present survey results of 110 CH sufferers (CH'ers) using a daily anti-inflammatory regimen of vitamin and mineral supplements including 10,000 IU/d vitamin D3, (cholecalciferol) and Omega-3 fish oil as a CH preventative. BACKGROUND: Cluster headache is one of the most painful and disabling headache disorders known to man. Results from an informal survey CH’ers using the anti-inflammatory regimen as a CH preventative indicated a surprisingly high efficacy. A survey was needed to qualify and quantify the efficacy of this regimen. DESIGN/METHODS: A questionnaire was developed to capture efficacy, 25(OH)D lab results along with essential demographic and epidemiological information. Participants were advised to consult with their PCP or neurologist before starting this regimen and to ask for the 25(OH)D lab tests before and after 蠅30 days of use or a favorable response. RESULTS: 80% of CH'ers reported significant reductions in frequency, severity and duration of their CH. 60% reported remaining substantially PF. Average starting 25(OH)D was 23.4 ng/mL. Average 25(OH)D response after 蠅30 days or favorable response was 76 ng/mL. Regimen appears equally effective for both ECH and CCH, although ECH'ers enjoy a slightly higher efficacy of 85% vs. 70% for CCH. A stress test of 25(OH)D reserves after 13 mo. PF, resulted in a return of CH after 8 days without vitamin D3. 33% reported comorbidities. There were no major adverse events reported. CONCLUSIONS: Empirical data suggest a possible causal relationship between a vitamin D3 insufficiency/deficiency and cluster headache. At <30 cents a day, this regimen with 10,000 IU/d vitamin D3, is safe, effective and well tolerated. It can be combined with most standards of care treatment strategies for CH. As such, it has the potential to become a new game-changing addition to the standards of care evidence-based recommended treatments of CH and other TACs
Disclosure: Dr. Batcheller has nothing to disclose.
Monday, April 28 2014, 3:00 pm-6:30 pm
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