Evidence supporting the use of: Progesterone
For the health condition: Migraine

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Progesterone and Migraine: Scientific Evidence Overview

Progesterone has been investigated as a potential treatment or preventive agent for migraine, particularly in the context of menstrual-related migraine, due to its role in the menstrual cycle and observed fluctuations in hormone levels that can trigger migraine attacks in susceptible women. The "menstrual migraine" phenomenon relates to the drop in estrogen and possibly progesterone prior to menstruation, which may precipitate attacks.

Some small clinical studies and case reports have suggested that using progesterone or combined estrogen-progesterone therapy may help stabilize hormonal fluctuations and reduce the frequency or severity of menstrual migraines. For example, perimenstrual supplementation with natural progesterone or combined hormonal contraceptives (which include a progestin) has shown some benefit in select populations, especially when migraines are closely linked to the menstrual cycle. However, evidence is inconsistent, and results from larger randomized controlled trials are lacking.

Current guidelines do not recommend routine use of progesterone for the general prevention or treatment of migraine, though it may be considered in specific cases of menstrual migraine after careful evaluation. Most research has focused on estrogen withdrawal as a trigger, with progesterone's role being less clearly defined.

In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and limited evidence supporting progesterone's use in menstrual migraine, the overall strength of evidence is low (rated 2/5), and it is not a broadly validated or standard migraine therapy.

More about Progesterone
More about Migraine

Products containing Progesterone

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