Why Vitamin D3 is Gaining Attention as a Migraine Fighter

Dr. John Hickner, editor-in-chief of The Journal of Family Practice, reminded me again of an emerging migraine treatment that you may not have heard of. And one phrase may tell you why – “at a fraction of the cost”. Any treatment that may fight migraine “at a fraction of the cost” of more mainstream medications might not get the press that it deserves.

Dr. Hickner mentioned two recent studies of vitamin D3 for migraine. A 2019 D3 study gave a low dose of D3 to patients for 24 weeks (about 5 and a half months). Migraine frequency did drop compared to the control group. There were no reported side effects at all.

A 2020 D3 study gave patients a higher (though still low) dose of D3 for just 12 weeks. In this case, not only did migraine frequency drop, but patients also found that the attacks were shorter and less severe. Researchers felt that the vitamin may protect patients against neuro-inflammation.

In the case of the second study, patients were given 2000 IU per day.

For Dr. Hickner, the “fraction of the cost” comes in when comparing D3 to CGRP related drugs. He writes:

Two recent randomized trials demonstrated that ? 2000 IU/d of vitamin D reduced monthly migraine days an average of 2 days, which is comparable to the effectiveness of the calcium gene-related peptide antagonists at a fraction of the cost.

Dr. John Hickner

The low risk and low cost of supplements like D3 make them very attractive, in spite of the lack of attention they receive. For more on recommended supplements, check out Best Vitamin D Supplements. And remember, another fantastic way to get vitamin D3 is to get outside and enjoy some sunshine! No one makes money when you go for a walk, but it may make your life a whole lot better.