Sumatriptan Prophylaxis for Postelectroconvulsive Therapy Headaches

Very little has been written about headaches following electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) but the incidence has been estimated at 26%. ¹ Patients with a history of migraine occasionally have similar headaches precipitated by ECT.² In addition, some patients may have headaches that persist for months after a series of ECT treatments, while some patients who have a preexisting headache problem report improvement with ECT.³
Serotonergic mechanisms have been proposed both for the efficacy of ECT and its tendency to produce headaches in susceptible patients.^3,4 There have been no studies on the prophylaxis or treatment of post-ECT headache. While various strategies have been suggested for these headaches, even case reports documenting the efficacy of these strategies are lacking. We, therefore, report a case of severe, refractory, post-ECT headaches which responded to prophylactic treatment with sumatriptan.     

Nutritional Determinants of Bone Health

ABSTRACT

Osteoporosis is a major public health problem. The aging population will require vigilant prevention, education, and treatment to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures and falls. Nutritional requirements of elderly persons can have a profound effect on bone health. Calcium, vitamin D, and protein are vital nutrients for optimal bone health. Adequate calcium is essential for bone maintenance. Vitamin D research shows a link between reduced falls and fractures. Related macro- and micronutrients play an important role in bone mass integrity and quality. Adequate nutrition for older adults needs to be encouraged to promote and maintain bone health.