Migraine BTX Injections
Migraine BTX Injection
Migraines are a type of headache disorders characterized by recurrent headaches that are typically described as throbbing or pounding over one side of the head. It is usually of moderate to severity intensity and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sound and smell. Some patients with migraines also experience an aura. An aura refers to a sensory disturbance that occurs prior to the onset of the migraine. These may be experienced as visual disturbances (eg. tunnel vision, zig-zag lines across the visual field) or sensory disturbances (eg. tinging in the limbs or face)
Migraines are commonly treated with a combination of lifestyle modification (eg. exercise, reduction of stress, diet) and medications. In general, medications used to treat migraine are classified into "abortive" and "preventive" medications.
If these treatment options are not sufficiently effective, your doctor may recommend to you BTX Injections.
Patient FAQs
BTX was first noticed to help migraines in 1992 by plastic surgeon Dr William J. Binder. He observed that some of his patients who received BTX injections for cosmetic reasons also reported a marked decrease in the number of migraine days they experienced. Following this, several well‑designed studies confirmed his serendipitous finding, and BTX has been approved for the treatment of chronic migraine since 2010.
BTX is now understood to reduce migraines through several mechanisms:
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Muscle relaxation around the head and neck
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Reduced release of pain‑related nerve transmitters such as CGRP
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Interruption of pain signalling from the sensory nerves of the face and scalp
Together, these effects can help decrease the frequency and severity of migraine attacks in appropriately selected patients
Certain individuals should avoid BTX injections for migraine prevention, including those with allergies to botulinum toxin or its components or patients with neuromuscular disorders (eg. Myasthenia Gravis).
If you have any of the following conditions, make sure that you inform your doctor as well:
1) Pregnant or breastfeeding women
2) Taking anticoagulant medications
3) Other muscular disorders (eg. ALS, swallowing or respiratory difficulties)
Other options are available if BTX is not suitable for you. Consult Dr Christopher Liu to find out more.
After the injection, you will notice a difference in your migraine from the third day onwards. This will continue to improve and the peak onset of action is on the third week. Thereafter, you will find that the injection will continue to work up till the third or fourth month. If this treatment works for you, you will require repeated injected every 3 to 4 months.
Headache & Chronic Migraine Care
Dr Christopher Liu is a headache and pain specialist dedicated to patients with difficult-to-manage symptoms. He provides a comprehensive assessment, carefully reviewing your history and previous treatments to establish a clear diagnosis. Your management plan may include trigger identification, lifestyle adjustments, preventive medications, and targeted procedures like BTX injections tailored to your specific needs.
For specialist advice on managing chronic headaches, contact us directly at +65 86555722.