Open-label zonisamide for refractory migraine

Zonisamide is a novel anticonvulsant drug with multiple mechanisms of action, many of which may confer efficacy in the treatment of migraine headaches. This study investigated the use of open-label zonisamide in treating patients with refractory migraine headaches. Thirty-four migraine patients were initiated on a 100-mg/day zonisamide dosage, which was titrated to 400 mg/day as tolerated. Mean headache severity, frequency, and duration were assessed before and 1, 2, and 3 months after initiation of zonisamide therapy. Statistically significant improvements in headache severity (P