Efficacy of memantine compared with sodium valproate as prophylactic treatment for migraine: a controlled randomized pilot study

Abstract

Aim: To compare the efficacy of memantine with that of valproate as a prophylactic treatment for episodic migraine within three months. The efficacy, safety, and response rate were evaluated. Methods: Prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial randomized participants were divided into two groups. The memantine group received memantine 10 mg twice daily, and the valproate group received valproate 500 mg twice daily. Results: Thirty-three patients participated in the study; 27 completed the treatment protocol, 14 in the memantine group, and 13 in the valproate group. The mean number of migraine attacks per month in the memantine group was 5.31 [standard deviation (SD) ± 1.54] initially and 0.93 (SD ± 1.49) at the end of treatment, noting a decrease of 4.21 (SD ± 1.76; P < 0.001). In the valproate group, the mean number of migraine attacks per month was 5.35 (SD ± 1.11) initially and 0.77 (SD ± 1.16) at the end of treatment, with a difference of 4.5 (SD ± 1.39; P < 0.001). All 27 patients had excellent response rates. Adverse effects were infrequent and mild in severity. Conclusions: A clinical trial compared the efficacy of memantine with that of valproate (first-line drug) as a prophylactic treatment. A significant reduction in attacks was noted in both drugs. Memantine could be a new preventive treatment option for migraine.