Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) for Migraine

Vitamin B2, otherwise known as riboflavin, has long been a recommended supplement for migraine. Over the past couple of years, studies have continued to show the benefits of B2 for adults, although there has been less evidence for its use in children (see also Supplements as Preventatives for Children – what works?).

Some studies have even found that its comparable to certain common drug treatments (see this study comparing riboflavin to sodium valproate, leading some researchers to recommend it as a safer option as compared to more mainstream migraine medications.

But vitamin B2 still seems to shine most when used in conjunction with other complimentary and traditional treatments. Hence the popularity of combo supplements such as MigreLief. See also some of our visitors comments in Magnesium for Migraine 2 – Combos?

A common recommendation for migraine patients is 400mg of B2 daily. It’s wise to check with your doctor before trying any new treatments.

Recently, ConsumerLab.com did a test of various vitamin B supplements. They tested only two brands with B2, but they both passed quality tests. They were the PipingRock.com brand, and Nature’s Way. The PipingRock.com version was at time of writing less expensive, while according to ConsumerLab.com the Nature’s Way version had the advantage of being gluten free and avoiding other common allergens such as soy and dairy. Both come in 100mg capsules.

Check out this randomized controlled trial, which found patients taking riboflavin had 50% fewer migraine attacks than those taking the placebo: Effectiveness of high-dose riboflavin in migraine prophylaxis.