Meds & Migraines

[jada326]

I am so desperate for help with an ongoing problem that I cannot get relief for.  I was diagnosed in 1997 for Bipolar Disorder 2  with panic/anxiety also.  However I have been suffering from migraines since I was 17.   My actual problem is the medication Parnate (MAOI) I have been taking for the last 6 or 7 years.  Due to all the restrictions and my reactions with other medications I cannot find a medication that will help with the migraines that leave me wishing for death.  My other medications are Lithium 450mg twice a day, Parnate 30 mg per day, Clonazepam 1mg twice a day, Inderal 20 mg once a day, Seroquel 100mg at night and then I have Xanax 1mg for breakthrough attacks that I take only when needed.  I know my doses are low compared to most people but my tolerance is low and this cocktail keeps me pretty even-keeled.  My neurologist has tried many tests and is limited to minimal pain and my psychiatrist is not giving me much help.

Thank you

[Betteroffsober]

Hi. I take migraine medicine to get rid of headaches and give me a boost of energy since it has caffeine. The problem is it works good but even though I eat something before I take it, about an hour or so later I am nauseous. Why does this happen if I eat like it says. Does anyone have any insight into this. Thanks

[jada326]

Thank you for the help but I have tried the Ensam but I had reactions to it and had to stop.  Unfortunately for me I have a low tolerance issue when it comes to many medications.  It took years of trying different medicines to get where I am now.  I am considering coming off the Parnate if there is an alternative that will be or can be as effective.  I will try to get a post on the doctors website for any other suggestions since I am coming to a dead end with my current doctor....and yes I am looking for psychiatrists that specialize in my disorders.  I truly thank you for the information and will look into the Topomax.

Thank you once again.....

[ILADVOCATE]

Well this is really a medical question and due to the interactions with MAO inhibitors best addressed to a professional. I know that Topomax works on migraines but you could ask if they interact. I know that the MAOI inhibitor Ensam does not have interactions if you take the newly available patch form but I don't know if they've considered that. We have some webpages linked up for information. You could find out more there and then speak to your psychiatrist about it.