Improving medication adherence in migraine treatment

Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2015 Jun;19(6):24. doi: 10.1007/s11916-015-0498-8.

Abstract

Medication adherence is integral to successful treatment of migraine and other headache. The existing literature examining medication adherence in migraine is small, and the methodologies used to assess adherence are limited. However, these studies broadly suggest poor adherence to both acute and preventive migraine medications, with studies using more objective monitoring reporting lower adherence rates. Methods for improving medication adherence are described, including organizational strategies, provider-monitoring and self-monitoring of adherence, regimen strategies, patient education, self-management skills training (e.g., stimulus control, behavioral contracts), and cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques. The article concludes by discussing the future of research regarding adherence to medications for migraine and other headaches.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Medication Adherence / psychology*
  • Migraine Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Migraine Disorders / prevention & control
  • Migraine Disorders / psychology
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Reminder Systems
  • Self Care / methods
  • Self Care / psychology*