Triptans in orgasmic headache

Cephalalgia. 2006 Dec;26(12):1458-61. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2982.2006.01224.x.

Abstract

Orgasmic headache (headache associated with sexual activity type 2 according to the International Headache Society classification) is a sudden severe headache which occurs at orgasm. Experiences with triptan therapy are described. Two out of four patients with severe headache continuing for >2 h had a positive response to acute triptan therapy. Two out of three patients using triptans as short-term prophylaxis reported a reliable response on several occasions. Triptans might be a treatment option to shorten orgasmic headache attacks after the diagnosis is clear and, particularly, subarachnoid haemorrhage has been excluded. In patients who chose to predict their sexual activity, short-term prophylaxis with oral triptans 30 min before sexual activity might be a therapeutic option in those not responsive to or not tolerating indomethacin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Headache / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Orgasm / physiology*
  • Tryptamines / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Tryptamines