Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is a type of neurotoxin that paralyzes muscles. It comes from a bacterium known as Clostridium botulinum. It has been shown to be effective for chronic migraine patients while using it for cosmetic treatment. It was found that those who had Botox had fewer headaches. 

 

Migraine is a condition that can cause many symptoms, including severe headaches that can be throbbing and debilitating. They tend to occur on one side of your head and can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Migraines are considered chronic (long-term) if you have headaches that last at least 4 hours for 15 days or more per month. 

 

Here are the basics of Botox for the purposes mentioned above: 

  • Active ingredient: onabotulinumtoxinA, a bioavailable source
  • Drug Class: Neurotoxin
  • Drug form: A liquid solution given by intramuscular injection for chronic migraine
  • Available as a biosimilar: No

 

Does botox work on migraines? 

In one study of adults with chronic migraine, Botox injections reduced the total number of days lived or even other types of headaches. They had more "crystal"—pain-free—days per month and reported fewer days off. 

 

In another study, about half of people who received two rounds of Botox injections said their number of headaches per month was halved. After five cycles of treatment, this percentage increased to about 70% of people. 

 

Doctors believe Botox is effective for migraines because it blocks chemicals called neurotransmitters that send pain signals from your brain. It stops the chemicals before they reach the nerve endings around your head and neck. 

You will receive several doses of Botox in the head and neck once every 12 weeks to relieve or prevent migraines. 

 

You may need 30-40 twists in total and you will get an equal number on each side of your head. If you have migraine pain in a specific area, you may need more injections in that area. You can see results 2-3 weeks after the first treatment. 

You should get this type of Botox treatment from a doctor trained to administer these injections for chronic migraines rather than just wrinkle or other cosmetic treatments. 

 

How long does botox take to relieve migraines? 

Botox is injected into the area that causes headaches and migraines. It affects nerve endings and inhibits the release of chemicals involved in pain transmission. After receiving Botox injections, it may take 10 to 14 days or longer for you to feel relief.