EAN 2021 | New EAN treatment guidelines for cluster headache

Cluster headache is a disabling condition with a major impact on patients’ quality of life. The most recent guidelines for the treatment of cluster headache were released over 10 years ago, since which time an increase in research and awareness has brought new evidence, necessitating revision of the guidelines. Rigmor Jensen, MD, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark, presents the new European Academy of Neurology (EAN) guidelines for acute and preventive treatment of cluster headache. In the acute setting, emphasized guidelines include the need the high-flow oxygen availability and triptans via nasal or intravenous administration. Verapamil continues to be recommended as the first-line preventive treatment for cluster headache, with the need for escalation to an effective dose and ECGs to check for cardiac adverse events emphasized in the guidelines. This interview took place during the European Academy of Neurology 2021 congress.