I tried to fight off the beast as long as I could with my daily methods (O2, Red Bull, running, Aspirin), but I can't take the pain any more (2 months). So last night I gave in and started Topiramate. I hate Topiramate. It works, but I hate it. I hate the side effects, I hate feeling drugged all the time, I hate not having an appetite, and I hate the numb hands and feet. I started my Calcium, D, and K with it, to avoid some of the numbness, so we'll see.

That's my rant for the day. Hope at least some of you are PF today.

Have you ever tried lithium? Works as an effective prevent for many, myself included, with very little in the way of side effects. I take 1200 mg a day when on cycle, blocks 60-70% of my hits. I get a little lethargy, a cup or two of coffee will dispel that, and that's about it for side effects for me. If I didn't tell you I was on it, you'd never know. Might be worth talking to your doc.

The only down sides.....takes 2-4 blood draws the first time you go on it to establish what your therapeudic dose is, and you pee A LOT the first few weeks while your body adjusts to it.

Lithium, oxygen to abort, and beasty holds very little power over me. :)

Joe

I have an appointment with my doc next month. He's an older guy, but very progressive, keeps up with everything (he's a certified headache specialist) and most importantly, he listens to the patient's individual reactions. So, I will ask him about it, and he may even prescribe it, if not this cycle, then next. It's a great thing to finally have a good doctor along with all you great people on this board.

I hear you. A doc who listens is worth their weight in gold.

Joe

Sorry you had to resort to the nuclear option Mike.  We've all been there though.  You have to do whatever you can to get through.  Hopefully your Dr will have a better option when you get in to see him.

I hope your cycle breaks soon...

-Dennis-

I, too, am sorry for you, Mike. I know you know what to do but sometimes when the pain hits and remains we get lost in the fear and panic. Write down everything you know about aborting and preventing CHs and don't rely only on your usual routine. It may be there's something you would have recommended to a newbie that could work again for you, or work this time around. And who knows, there may be some things on your list you know about but haven't tried yet? Like kudzu perhaps. It's good to pen and paper this kind of thing. It moves us out of our emotional responses and into a more logical methodology. Of course, when the pain hits, there's only a desire to lessen it. May you have success with topomax. Blessings. lance