Randomised trial, 2011
Does sumatriptan-naproxen help women with period migraines and period pain function better?
Yes, women given the combination drug reported higher satisfaction, better work productivity, and less functional disability compared to placebo at 24 hours.
What they did
Two identical studies in multiple centers randomly assigned women with period migraines and period pain to receive either a single tablet of sumatriptan 85 mg with naproxen sodium 500 mg or placebo to treat one migraine attack. Researchers measured satisfaction, work productivity, and functional ability.
What they found
Women on the combination drug reported significantly higher satisfaction at 24 hours for efficacy, functionality, and ease of use. They had lower lost-time equivalents in work and leisure and lower rates of functional disability compared to placebo. There were minimal side effects with either treatment.
What it means for you
The combination drug helps women feel satisfied with treatment and return to normal activities during period migraines. The study examined only one migraine attack per woman, so we do not know if benefits continue over longer periods.
85 mg / 500 mg
Sumatriptan and naproxen sodium doses
P < .001
Significance for satisfaction
P = .003
Significance for lost work time
About the study
- Original title
- Sumatriptan-naproxen sodium for menstrual migraine and dysmenorrhea: satisfaction, productivity, and functional disability outcomes
- Authors
- Cady RK, Diamond ML, Diamond MP et al.
- Journal
- Headache
- Year
- 2011
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- What was tested
- Sumatriptan 85 mg plus naproxen sodium 500 mg as a single tablet versus placebo
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2011.01894.x
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