IV Infusion Therapy (IVIT) for the Acute Treatment of Migraine
An IV infusion using patient specific protocols developed by our experts in headache medicine. IVIT is typically very helpful in stopping an acute migraine attack and is an excellent alternative to the emergency department or urgent care. Some patients report ongoing improvement in their headaches for 3-4 weeks after IVIT as well.
There are a variety of medications that can be given IV to help break an acute migraine attack. Our headache specialists create a specific combination of therapies and doses, keeping in mind your entire clinical picture including your medical conditions, medications and allergies. The options available for infusion include various therapies such as magnesium, Depacon®, Keppra®, Zofran®, Benadryl®, Toradol®, and Phenergan®. The infusion typically includes 1-2 liters of IV fluids along with the medications to ensure adequate hydration and tolerability. This is an excellent option to treat intractable nausea as well.
The IV medications are typically well tolerated, with the most common side effect being fatigue. If you would like to receive IV Benadryl®, we require that you have a driver as this therapy is often associated with this side effect. Otherwise (if no Benadryl® is used), you may drive yourself to and from the infusion. The infusion itself takes anywhere from 90-120 minutes to complete. Dosing and medications may be adjusted during your visit to maximize benefit. The goal is for you to leave the infusion center feeling substantially better.
The infusions are done in your own private infusion room, so you have the privacy and solitude you may desire during an acute migraine attack. Each infusion room is equipped with dimmed lighting and in the quiet setting of our infusion suite, situated in the back of the clinic away from any regular foot traffic. Each room has a cushioned, reclining, massage chair with an additional sitting chair available for anyone coming to the infusion with you. You will be monitored by trained nursing staff during the entirety of your infusion visit and typically one of the PHI providers will also visit with you during your stay.
You should not owe anything at the time of your infusion as the entirety of the infusion is billed to your medical insurance. The cost of the infusion is subject to your deductible and can range anywhere from $150-200 (depending on if you have met your deductible). Please check with your health insurance prior to the infusion if you would like an exact cost before proceeding.
The nursing team at PHI performs ~1,250-1,500 successful infusion per year.
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