Unfortunately, preventive treatment strategies rarely eliminate migraine, but they can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. The ultimate goals of migraine preventive therapy are to: Reduce frequency, severity, and duration of attacks. Improve responsiveness to treatment of acute attacks.

How long do migraine preventatives take to work?

It can take six to eight weeks to see any impact from the medication. Ideally, you should take a preventive for three months to assess if it has had an effect on your migraine.

What is the best preventative medication for migraines?

Divalproex (Depakote), topiramate (Topamax), metoprolol, propranolol, and timolol are effective for migraine prevention and should be offered as first-line treatment. Petasites has been established as effective and can be considered for migraine prevention.