The United States Food and Drug Administration is warning pregnant women against using the migraine drug valproate sodium, which tests have shown could adversely affect their babies' brain functions.
The regulatory agency announced today results of a recent study suggesting that, by age six, children exposed to valproate products in the womb had lower IQ scores than children exposed to other migraine medications.
Drugs containing valproate are used to treat epileptic seizures and manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder, as well as prevent migraine headaches --- and are already packaged with warnings about possible birth defects.
Nonetheless, "valproate medications should never be used in pregnant women for the prevention of migraine headaches because we have even more data now that shows the risks to the children outweigh any treatment benefits for this use," Russell Katz, director of the FDA's neurology products division, was quoted saying by Reuters.
Abbott Laboratories' Depacon, Depakote, Depakote CP, Depakote ER and Depakene, and Noven Therapeutics LLC's Stavzor and their generics contain valproate.
The new FDA announcement marks the second time the agency has issued a warning about drugs containing valproate.
The agency in June 2011, released preliminary results of a study that demonstrated reduced cognitive functions in three-year-old children exposed to valproate.
More than 29.5 million Americans experience migraines, according to the National Headache Foundation. Symptoms may include:
- Moderate to severe pain on one or both sides of the head
- Pulsating or throbbing pain
- Pain worse with physical activity
- Nausea with or without vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or sound
For migraine sufferers --- especially those who are pregnant --- who feel wary of traditional medicines, the NHF also suggests the following natural treatments:
Feverfew: "Migraines are the most serious form of headaches. The incapacitating pain of a migraine headache is often accompanied by sensitivity to light, vision problems, nausea and vomiting. Feverfew is a well-known herb in the world of migraine treatment. While this herb may be useful for those in the throes of a migraine, its real value lies in preventing migraines, when taken on a daily basis). Studies show that feverfew stops the clumping of platelets in the blood and reduces blood vessel constriction and dilation, which can cause migraines," says a posing on the NHF website.
White willow bark: "Willow bark contains salicin, the key ingredient in aspirin, which makes it a natural pain reliever," the site posting continues. "Willow bark doesn't work as fast as ibuprofen or Advil, but it's also less likely to cause the gastrointestinal bleeding that these nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are famous for."
Peppermint oil: "Rubbing a few drops of peppermint oil on your temples has been shown to relieve tension headaches. Peppermint oil creates a cooling sensation when it comes in contact with skin, and it helps to relax the muscles in your head and neck. The scent of peppermint oil also has the power to calm nerves and clear your nasal passages, which may help if your headache is caused by stress or sinus pressure," the posting on the NHF website continues.
Eucalyptus oil: "Applying eucalyptus oil to your forehead," says the site, "can also help relieve headaches in the same manner as peppermint oil...eucalyptus oil can soothe, relax muscles and clear nasal passages. Place a few drops of eucalyptus oil into a bowl of steaming water and inhale deeply."
Lavender: "The scent of lavender has a powerful effect on the nervous system, relieving problems such as insomnia, anxiety and stress, which can all contribute to headaches," the NHF site reads. "Anecdotal evidence suggests that lavender can help relieve the pain of even the worst headaches, including migraines. Place a few drops of lavender essential oil on your pillow, create a lavender sachet or brew a cup of lavender tea to utilize this natural headache reliever.
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