Migraine Management Flowchart

This algorithm addresses the management of migraine, including for patients in the acute care setting (e.g., emergency department). In acute care settings the likelihood of a severe headache being caused by an alternative and sometimes life-threatening condition is significant, so careful evaluation may be necessary before concluding the headache is due to migraine.

Primary Authors: Jonathan H. Smith, MD and Ivan Garza, MD
Secondary Authors: Scott D. Eggers, MD and Deborah J. Rhodes, MD
Input and Recommendations: Mohamad Bydon, MD, Bryan T. Klassen, MD, Suresh Kotagal, MD, Ruple S. Laughlin, MD, Eugene L. Scharf, MD, Cheolsu Shin, MD, Jerry W. Swanson, MD, MHPE and W. Oliver Tobin, MB, BCh, BAO, PhD
AHS editors: Adam S. Sprouse Blum, MD, Carol A. Barch, MN, FNP-BC, Hope O’Brien, MD, MBA, Scott Litin, MD, Mia T. Minen, MD, MPH, Matthew S. Robbins, MD, Kathleen B. Digre, MD
Disclaimer:The opinions expressed here are solely those of the authors and reviewers. The AHS does not provide medical advice or recommendations. As with all flowcharts, clinical judgement in each individual situation must be considered.   Additionally, this webpage is subject to the AHS Legal Notice and Disclaimers found at https://americanheadachesociety.org/web-site-legal-notice-and-disclaimers/.