Botox for
Chronic Migraine
FDA-approved. Medically administered.
This is not cosmetic Botox. This is a clinically validated, neurologically targeted treatment for patients whose migraines have not been adequately controlled.
BOTOX
BOTOX
What Botox For Migraines Actually Is
In 2010, the FDA approved Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) for the preventive treatment of chronic migraine in adults — defined as 15 or more headache days per month, with at least eight of those involving migraine symptoms.
It works differently from cosmetic Botox. Rather than relaxing facial muscles for aesthetic reasons, therapeutic Botox for migraine works by blocking the release of peripheral pain neurotransmitters that contribute to the neurological cascade driving a migraine. It does not cure migraines. It reduces their frequency and severity — often significantly — in patients for whom other preventive treatments have not provided adequate control.
Treatment consists of a series of small injections administered across specific sites on the head, face, and neck. Sessions typically take 15–20 minutes. The effects develop over 7 to 10 days and require repeat treatment approximately every three months to maintain benefit.
Is Botox For Migraines Right For You?
Botox is a clinically appropriate option for patients who:
- Receive headaches on 15 or more days per month
- Have a formal diagnosis of chronic migraine
- Have not achieved adequate relief from oral preventive medications
- Are looking for a preventive — not just an acute — treatment strategy
At the National Headache Institute, we do not administer Botox without first completing a thorough diagnostic evaluation. Understanding your headache pattern, history, and the factors driving your migraines is essential to determining whether Botox is the right tool for you — and how it fits within your overall treatment plan.
What To Expect
Consultation First
Before any Botox treatment is considered, you will have a comprehensive diagnostic consultation with Dr. Sima Solaimanzadeh . She will review your headache history, frequency, severity, prior treatments, and diagnostic workup to determine whether Botox is clinically indicated for you.
Treatment sessions
If Botox is recommended, treatment involves approximately 31 small injections across standardised sites on the scalp, forehead, temples, neck, and upper back. Discomfort is minimal and the session is brief.
Results over time
Most patients require two to three treatment cycles before experiencing the full benefit. Many report a meaningful reduction in headache days per month. Some find that after several cycles, headache frequency continues to improve.
Ongoing monitoring
We track your response to treatment carefully and adjust your overall care plan based on your progress.
Insurance and Coverage
Botox for chronic migraine is covered by most insurance plans when medically necessary criteria are met. This typically requires a formal chronic migraine diagnosis and documentation of prior treatment attempts. Our team will work with you to navigate insurance requirements and support the approval process.