Magnesium and L-Carnitine Reduce Migraine Frequency and Severity
December 2012
Magnesium and L-carnitine impact the frequency and severity of migraines, a new clinical trial published in August 2012 reports. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that 21.8 percent of women and 10 percent of men are affected by migraines.
In addition to routine treatment, the researchers assigned the 133 subjects with migraines to receive:
1. Magnesium oxide 500 mg per day,
2. L-carnitine 500 mg per day,
3. 500 mg per day magnesium plus 500 mg per day L-carnitine, or
4. No intervention to serve as the control group.
After 12 weeks of supplementation, the researchers collected data, including migraine attacks per month, migraine days per month and headache severity. The investigators also measured serum concentrations of magnesium and L-carnitine.
The researchers found a significant reduction in all migraine indicators in all studied groups, including a significant reduction in migraine frequency. More specifically, the researchers determined that magnesium supplementation had a significant effect on all migraine indicators.
The investigators concluded that supplementation with magnesium oxide and L-carnitine, as well as supplementation of magnesium plus L-carnitine, in addition to routine treatments, could be effective in treating migraines.
Reference:
Tarighat Esfanjani A, et al. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2012 Aug 17. [Epub ahead of print.]
Source: Magnesium and L-Carnitine Reduce Migraine Frequency and Severity
