Background: Numerous experiments and clinical observations have credited magnesium with a positive influence on the incidence of migraine attacks.
Methods: With the aim of testing this hypothesis, a doubleblind, cross-over multicenter pilot study was initiated. The study contained 43 migraine patients who met the criteria of the international Headache Society.
Interventions: Administration of 600 mg magnesium/day in the form of trimagnesium dieitrate for prophylaxis.
Results: Under this medication, a significant reduction in the incidence of migraine attacks was observed. Although the level of effectiveness of the regimen does not appear to be as high as that of presently approved migraine prophylactic substances, a very low rate of side effects can be expected.
Conclusion: The working hypothesis to the effect that magnesium may be useful in the prevention of migraine attacks has been confirmed by the pilot study. Further studies aimed at determining dosage and enabling a further differentiation of patient material are in preparation.