Cluster Headache Treatment Poses Cardiac Dangers

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Secondly, the conduction system of the heart (the natural "pacemaker") becomes more sensitive to the effects of verapamil with age, Sica said.

"It's likely that an older population would not be able to tolerate the same dose," he concluded.

According to Goadsby, the take-home message of this study is simple: Be sure to get regular EKGs if you are taking verapamil for cluster headaches. Goadsby recommended EKGs within two weeks of changing doses, and because problems can arise over time -- even if the dose doesn't change -- to get an EKG every six months while on a constant dose.

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"The tests are not expensive, and they are not invasive," he said. "They are not in any way a danger to the patient."

For the most part, Goadsby said, should a cardiac problem arise, it will typically go away once the treatment is halted.

More information

For more on cluster headaches, visit the American Academy of Family Physicians.

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