NGHIÊN CỨU ĐẶC ĐIỂM LÂM SÀNG VÀ ĐÁNH GIÁ KẾT QUẢ ĐIỀU TRỊ DỰ PHÒNG TÁI PHÁT CƠN ĐAU ĐẦU KIỂU CĂNG THẲNG BẰNG AMITRIPTYLINE

Abstract

Background: Tension-type headaches are a prevalent health phenomenon, ranking second in the list of global health disorders, just behind tooth decay. A common symptom is the feeling of a tight band across the forehead, significantly affecting the quality of life and work productivity. Amitriptyline is considered one of the top choices for preventing tension-type headache. Therefore, conducting research is necessary to supplement scientific data on the clinical symptoms and evaluate the treatment effectiveness of amitriptyline in tension-type headaches. Objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics of tension-type headaches and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of amitriptyline for tension-type headaches prevention. Materials and methods: A crosssectional descriptive study and clinical intervention without a control group of 50 patients diagnosed with tension-type headaches. Study participants were evaluated for clinical characteristics of  tension-type headache and amitriptyline treatment was initiated at 25 mg/day. The primary efficacy measure was defined as ≥ 30% reduction in monthly Tension-type headache frequency after 2 weeks. Results: The male/female ratio: 1/2.8; average age 50±14.53 years; average age of onset for tension headaches 42.8±10.3 years; number of tension headache episodes per 28 days: 15.78±3.12 attacks. The effectiveness rate of amitriptyline was 86.4%, specifically, the 25mg dosage of amitriptyline was 64%. The main side effects were dry mouth (53.85%), weight gain (64.1%), drowsiness (64.1%), and constipation (5.1%). There were no severe side effects or deaths. Conclusions: Tension-type headaches are predominantly found in women, accounting for 74%, especially those in middle age. Amitriptyline, at a dosage of 25mg, has been proven to be an effective and safe solution in alleviating tension headaches.