What is Medication Overuse Headache (MOH)? – Part 2

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Management of MOH

Withdrawal of the acute medications is the essential treatment of MOHs. Certainly, in most cases, this a challenging task and requires a very motivated patient. Drug withdrawal can be undertaken by a GP in patients who overuse triptans or other single drugs, excluding opioids. Certain medications may be used to help patients decrease their acute medication intake.  The addition of preventative medication usually is necessary.

In patients who overuse opioids, specialist addiction medicine consultation is advised.

Relapse Prevention

A headache management plan, including an appropriate prophylactic, patient education, and clear limits on the use of analgesia are all required to prevent a relapse of MOHs.

References:

http://headacheaustralia.org.au/news/medication-overuse-headache/

Medication Overuse Headache Australian Prescriber 2005;28:143-5 1 December 2005