Propofol and Alfentanil in Treatment of a Patient With Episodic Cluster Headache

Abstract

Introduction:Cluster headache is a severe hemifacial pain with concomitant symptoms such as lacrimation, conjunctival congestion, and nasal discharge. Peripheral (to be a spectrum of trigeminal autonomic cephalgia) and central (hypothalamus) disorders have been suggested to be involved. Several modalities have been recommended to prevent or alleviate this devastating headache.Case Presentation:In this case report, we presented a young man with an acute cluster headache who responded dramatically to the treatment with propofol and alfentanil.Conclusions:Propofol and alfentanil combination can be considered as a treatment approach in the attack phase of cluster headache.

Synergistic analgesic effect of propofol–alfentanil combination through detecting the inhibition of cAMP signal pathway

“…Several studies indicated that propofol can facilitate alfentanil in pain treatment, but the underlying regulatory mechanisms are still unknown. GABA reportedly plays a role in the spinal cord control of nociception .…”