CLINICAL PATHWAY

HEADACHE
For the Outpatient Setting
ALGORITHM 1. Approach to Headache Evaluation

Inclusion Criteria
•Patients age 8-17years old
•Patients with primary headache
(i.e., tension or migraine)
Child with Headache Exclusion Criteria
• Take detailed headache history •Patients younger than 8 years old
• Perform careful physical exam and over 17 years old
•Patient with secondary headaches

Are headaches
suspicious for a
secondary cause?
• Concerning historical
Yes See work-up, page 5
features (Table 1)
• Red flags present
(Table 2)
• Abnormal exam

No

What is the pattern?

Episodic Chronic
(<15 days/month) (>15 days/month)

Assess for: Assess for:

• Timing • Medication overuse
• Frequency • Medical/psychiatric comorbidities
• Severity • Disability
• Disability
Prevention:
Prevention: • Optimize Lifestyle (p. 6)
• Optimize Lifestyle (p. 6) • Address comorbidities
• Consider daily medication if > 1 • Start preventative medication (p. 7)
headache/week with disability (p. 11)
Acute Treatment:
Acute Treatment: • Use Headache Action Plan algorithm
• Use Headache Action Plan algorithm • Avoid analgesic overuse
• Consult headache specialist if • Strongly consider referral to
ineffective headache specialist

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ALGORITHM 2. Headache Action Plans

• Each of the plans listed below is

mutually exclusive Inclusion criteria
• Start with the most conservative plan first ! •Patients age 8 – 17 years old
(Plan A) •Patients with primary headache
(i.e., tension or migraine)
• Use Plan C and D for migraines only If patient fails Exclusion criteria
• Adopt a more aggressive plan 3rd line treatment on • Patients younger than 8 years old and
sequentially if the preceding plan does any plan consider over 17 years old
not provide complete relief of symptoms consulting neurology and/or • Patient with secondary headaches
after two attempts referring patient to an • Hemiplegic migraine
emergency department •Migraine with brainstem aura

• 1st line: Fluid replacement: 24-32 ounces at onset PLUS

ibuprofen PLUS non-pharmacologic strategies (rest, dark
room, warm/cold packs, relaxation exercises, etc.)
• 2nd line: if symptoms persist after 2 hours, administer
diphenhydramine
Plan A • 3rd line: If symptoms persist after 4-6 hours, may give

Tension Headaches
ibuprofen PLUS diphenhydramine every 6-8 hours for up to
72 hours

• 1st line: Fluid replacement: 24-32 ounces at onset PLUS

naproxen PLUS non-pharmacologic strategies (rest, dark
room, warm/cold packs, relaxation exercises, etc.)
• 2nd line: if symptoms persist after 2 hours, administer
More Aggressive Plans

diphenhydramine
Plan B • 3rd line: If symptoms persist after 6 hours, may give

Migraine Headaches
naproxen PLUS diphenhydramine every 8-12 hours for up
to 72 hours

• 1st line: Fluid replacement: 24-32 ounces at onset PLUS

triptan PLUS non-pharmacologic strategies (rest, dark
room, warm/cold packs, relaxation exercises, etc.)
• 2nd line: if symptoms persist after 2 hours, repeat triptan
and add ibuprofen or diphenhydramine
Plan C • 3rd line: If symptoms persist after 4-6 hours, may give
ibuprofen PLUS antiemetic (e.g. prochlorperazine) PLUS
diphenhydramine every 6-8 hours for up to 72 hours

• 1st line: Fluid replacement: 24-32 ounces at onset PLUS

triptan PLUS naproxen PLUS non-pharmacologic strategies
(rest, dark room, warm/cold packs, relaxation exercises,
etc.)
• 2nd line: if symptoms persist after 2 hours, repeat triptan
Plan D and add diphenhydramine
• 3rd line: If symptoms persist after 6 hours, may give
naproxen PLUS antiemetic (e.g. prochlorperazine) PLUS
diphenhydramine every 8-12 hours for up to 72 hours

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Algorithm 1 Approach to Headache Evaluation
Algorithm 2 Headache Action plan
Target Population
Background | Definitions
Diagnostic Criteria
Initial Evaluation- See Clinical Assessment
Clinical Management
Laboratory Studies | Imaging
Therapeutics
Provider Tools
Parent | Caregiver Education
Follow-up
Appendix A. Frequently Asked Questions for Providers
Appendix B. Headache Intake Questionnaire
Appendix C. PedMIDAS Disability Questionnaire
Appendix D. Headache Diary
Appendix E. Headaches in Children Handout
References
Clinical Improvement Team
TARGET POPULATION
Inclusion Criteria
• Patients age 8 to 17 years old
• Patients with primary headache (i.e., tension or migraine)

Exclusion Criteria
• Patients younger than 8 years old and over 17 years old
• Patient with secondary headaches

Scope
This pathway is intended for use in outpatient and primary care settings

BACKGROUND | DEFINITIONS
• Approximately 58% of children and adolescents experience recurrent headaches and 7.8% have migraine1
• There are different theories about the cause of headaches
• About 60% of children have a positive family history, suggesting genetic factors are partly responsible

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• Other possible reasons for migraine include blood vessel sensitivity, brain and nervous system changes, and
serotonin system abnormalities. Medicines used to treat headache disorders often work on these pathways

DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
International Headache Classification of Headache Disorders-III beta2
Migraine:
At least five attacks in a lifetime fulfilling criteria A-C

A. Headache attacks lasting 2 to 72 hours (untreated or unsuccessfully treated)

• Warnings, called auras, may start before the headache in up to 20% of migraine sufferers. These auras
can include blurry vision, flashing lights, spots, unilateral numbness, or unilateral sensory changes and
usually occur 5 to 60 minutes before the onset of the headache.
B. Headache attack has at least two of the following characteristics:

• Unilateral or bilateral location

• Pulsating/throbbing quality
• Moderate or severe pain intensity
• Aggravation by or causing avoidance of routine physical activity (e.g., walking or climbing stairs)
C. During headache at least one of the following:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Photophobia AND phonophobia (can be inferred from behavior)
D. Not attributed to another disorder

Tension-type headache (TTH):

At least ten attacks fulfilling criteria A-C

A. Headache attacks lasting 30 minutes to 72 hours (untreated or unsuccessfully treated)

B. Headache attack has at least two of the following characteristics:

• Bilateral location
• Band / pressure quality
• Mild to moderate pain intensity
• Not aggravated by routine physical activity (e.g., walking or climbing stairs)
C. During headache:

• No nausea or vomiting
• Can have photophobia or phonophobia, but not both
D. Not attributed to another disorder

Chronic:
• Both migraines and tension-type headaches can become chronic, meaning they occur at least 15 days per
month for greater than 3 months2

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• Approximately 1-2% of all children and adolescents suffer from chronic headaches. Approximately 2.5% of
individuals with episodic migraine will transform to chronic migraine every year. Risk factors for migraine
“chronification” include obesity, snoring, comorbid pain conditions, head or neck injury, and mood disorder3
• The pattern of progression typically escalates over time from low-frequency episodic migraine (< 9 days per
month) to high-frequency episodic migraine (9-14 days per month) to chronic migraine (≥15 days per month)4

Migraine progression and remission patterns (Bigal & Lipton, 2008)

• Chronic headaches can also result from taking acute medication more than 3 times per week to treat headache
attacks (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen, caffeine, opioids, butalbital, and combination analgesics). These
headaches are called medication overuse headaches. The most effective way to make these headaches better
is to stop taking pain medicines altogether for 2 to 3 weeks. After that time, use of pain relievers should be
limited to no more than 2 to 3 times per week5.

CLINICAL ASSESSMENT

History
• The goal of the history is to help distinguish primary headache disorder (migraine or tension-type) from
secondary headache disorder (increased ICP, tumor, etc.)5,6
• Utilize the Headache Intake Questionnaire for families to fill out prior to appointment or by yourself during history
taking.
• Assess the impact of the child’s or adolescent’s headaches on their ability to function normally. PedMIDAS is a
useful to measure baseline disability and to determine if acute and preventative interventions are working.5
PedMIDAS Score Range Disability Grade
0 to 10 Little to none
11 to 30 Mild
31 to 50 Moderate
Greater than 50 Severe

Physical Examination
• Vital signs, including blood pressure and temperature
• Palpation of the head and neck to assess for sinus tenderness, thyromegaly, muscle tightness, or nuchal rigidity5
• Head circumference (even in older children)
• Skin assessment for neurocutaneous syndrome, particularly neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis
• Detailed neurological examination with particular attention to fundoscopic examination, eye movements, head tilt,
finger-nose-finger testing for dysmetria, and tandem (heal-toe) gait for ataxia.

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needed Table 1. ACR Indications for Brain Imaging7

Neuroimaging is not routinely recommended in children with recurrent

Not

headache & normal exam

Significant change from previously stable pattern

Signs or symptoms of increased intracranial pressure
Awakens child from sleep or causes AM vomiting
Precipitated by Valsalva (cough, sneeze, bending or with exertion)
Consider

Worsening headache within 3 months of head trauma

Migraine with brainstem aura (dizziness, tinnitus, diplopia, ataxia)
Hemiplegic migraine
Compromised immunity
History of malignancy
Vomiting without cause
Abnormal exam
Recommended

Sudden severe headache

Associated seizures
Chronic progressive pattern (worsens over months)
Persistent confusion or altered consciousness
NOTE: More than 94% of children with brain tumors have objective neurological findings on exam7

LABORATORY STUDIES | IMAGING

Diagnostic tests are only indicated if they will change outcome

In general, most children with recurrent headaches require no diagnostic testing for clinical assessment. Utilize red
flags to guide diagnostic testing5,6. The more common red flags are listed below in Table 2.

Table 2: Red Flags for Secondary Headache

• Young age (<5 y/o)
• New onset or worsening headache
• Postural headache
• Posteriorly located headache
• Focal neurologic deficit
• Altered mental status (AMS)
• Fever
• Nighttime awakening
• Vomiting
• Early morning headache and or vomiting
• Neurocutaneous stigmata

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Neuroimaging
Computed tomography (CT) scanning usually not indicated in a child with recurrent headaches and normal exam6,7.

Consider when the following are present:

• Acute “worst headache of life” (WHOL)

• Thunderclap headache
• New focal neurological deficit is currently present on examination with acute headache
• Intractable vomiting
• Papilledema
• Fever
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

If one of more red flags (listed in Table 2) are present and there is concern for a tumor or other structural abnormality
then consider obtaining an MRI without contrast5,6.

• A single occurrence of nighttime awakening of headache in a child with recurrent headaches is not alarming, but
a child with a majority of headaches occurring only at nighttime would be worrisome.
• Several red flags may be more predictive of underlying neurological etiology such as younger age, focal
neurological deficit, and posteriorly-located headache.
Lumbar Puncture

• Mandatory in febrile patients with nuchal rigidity, signs of increased intracranial pressure, or lateralizing
features5,6.
• If the patient’s mental status is altered, papilledema is present, or focal findings are evident, cranial imaging is
warranted before lumbar puncture6.
• Measurement of opening pressure is recommended to aid in diagnosis6.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

• Of limited use in the routine evaluation of headache in children5,6

• May be warranted if headache is fleeting and is associated with alteration of consciousness or abnormal
movement, where the differential diagnosis will include complex partial seizure disorders6

CLINICAL MANAGEMENT
Behavioral modification
All children need to be counseled on behavior modification as “headache hygiene”—maintaining healthy habits to
prevent headaches. These are found in Caregiver Education but are summarized below5:

1. Fluids: Drink enough fluid (at least 6 to 8 glasses of water per day) and avoid caffeine.

2. Sleep: 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. Go to bed at the same time and awaken at the same time each day
to keep a regular sleep schedule.

3. Nutrition: Consume balanced meals at regular hours and do not skip meals. Triggers are different for each
individual. Possible food triggers include aged cheese, artificial sweeteners, caffeine, chocolate, citrus fruits,
cured meats (packaged lunchmeats, sausage, pepperoni), MSG, nuts, onions, and salty foods.

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4. Exercise/stretching: At least 45 minutes of aerobic activity and 5 to 10 minutes of stretching every day.

5. Stress: Stress is the number one trigger for children. Consider stress management, counseling, or relaxation
techniques available on web sites such as dawnbuse.com, headachereliefguide.com and anxietybc.com.

6. Electronics use: No more than 2 hours of non-academic computer time per day and none 1 hour prior to bed.

Abortive/Acute
See Table 3. Acute Outpatient Medications

The U.S. Headache Consortium identified the following goals for successful treatment of acute migraine9:
1. Treat attacks rapidly and consistently, and without recurrence

2. Restore the patient’s ability to function

3. Minimize the use of back-up and rescue medications

4. Optimize self-care and reduce subsequent use of resources

5. Cost–effective for overall management

6. Have minimal or no side effects

General Recommendations5
1. Create a treatment plan for home/school acute management

• Consider including a component of non-pharmacologic options (see below)

• Consider including fluid replacement as part of first line treatment (if not nauseated or vomiting)
• Have a first line medication to take at onset and a second line to take 2 hours later for continued headache
o First line therapy should not contain a sedating medication so child can return back to school work
o Second line therapy may contain a sedating medication and child should rest and avoid activity when
possible
2. The key is to treat with an adequate dose at onset of headache

3. If using a Triptan: it is most effective to take it at onset of headache. Consider delivery route. Intranasal route
may be more effective than tablets with patients with significant nausea or vomiting, headache severity peaks
quickly, or headache is present upon waking.

4. Start with monotherapy and progress to combinations of acute agents if monotherapy is ineffective

5. Abortive treatment should generally be limited to only 2 to 3 times per week. Consider changing the Headache
Action Plan if more frequent doses are needed as this may lead to medication overuse headache (i.e. rebound
headache)

6. If acute headaches are not relieved by oral medicines and last more than 72 hours, more aggressive therapies
(IV medications) may be required to abort this specific attack

USE HEADACHE ACTION PLAN ALGORITHM

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Non-pharmacologic options
• Fluid replacement: Sports drink without caffeine (such as Powerade®, Gatorade®, etc.), coconut water, or plain
water
• Rest
• Darken room
• No television, cell phone, etc.
• Relaxation techniques
• Warm or cold packs

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THERAPEUTICS

Table 3. Acute Outpatient Medications

Medication Form Dosage Maximum dose Frequency Formulations Side effects

NSAIDs
Ibuprofen PO 10 mg/kg/dose 400-800 mg. Q 6-8 hours Chew: 100 mg GI bleeding, GI Ulcers,
(Motrin®/Advil®) Maximum daily Tab: 200 mg decreased platelet function
dose 1200 mg / Syrup: 100 mg/5 ml
24 hours
Naproxen PO 5-7 250-500 mg. Q 8-12 Susp: 125 mg/ml
(Aleve®/Naprosy mg/kg/dose Maximum daily hours Tab: 220, 250, 375,
n®) dose 1000 mg / 500 mg.
24 hours
Acetaminophen PO 10-15 650-1000 mg. Susp: 160 mg/5 ml Hepatic toxicity
(Tylenol®) mg/kg/dose Do not exceed 5 Tab: 80, 325, 500
(oral) doses in 24 Q 4-6 hours mg
hours;
maximum daily
dose (oral or
rectal): 75
mg/kg/day not
to exceed 4000
mg / 24 hours
Acetaminophen PR 10-20 650 mg. Do not Rectal: 60, 120, Hepatic toxicity
(Tylenol®) mg/kg/dose exceed 5 doses Q 4-6 hours 325, 650 mg
(rectal) in 24 hours;
maximum daily
dose (oral or
rectal): 75
mg/kg/day not
to exceed 4000
mg / 24 hours
Antiemetics*
Ondansetron PO 0.1 8 mg Q 6-8 hours Syrup: 4mg/5mL Blurred vision, dizziness,
(Zofran) mg/kg/dose Tab: 4, 8 mg drowsiness, anxiety or
ODT: 4, 8 mg agitation, tachycardia
Prochlorperazine PO 0.1 10 mg Q 6-8 hours Syrup: 5mg/mL Blurred vision, akathisia,
(Compazine®) mg/kg/dose Tab: 5,10,25 mg dystonic reaction
(oral)
Prochlorperazine PR 0.1 10 mg Q 6-8 hours Rectal: 2.5, 5,10 Blurred vision, akathisia,
(Compazine®) mg/kg/dose mg dystonic reaction
(Rectal)
Promethazine PO 0.25 to 1 25 mg Q 4-6 hours Syrup: 6.25mg/5 Blurred vision, akathisia,
(Phenergan®) mg/kg/dose ml, 25 mg/5 mL dystonic reaction
(Oral) Tab scored: 12.5,
25, 50 mg
Promethazine PR 0.25 to 1 25 mg Q 4-6 hours Rectal: 12.5, 25, 50 Blurred vision, akathisia,
(Phenergan®) mg/kg/dose mg dystonic reaction
(Rectal)
Antihistamines
Diphenhydramine PO 0.5 50 mg Q 6 hours Syrup: 12.5mg/5mL Nausea, blurred vision,
(Benadryl®) mg/kg/dose Tab: 25, 50 mg xerostoma

*Be sure to administer diphenhydramine with dopamine-blocking anti-emetics to minimize risk of akathisia and
dystonic reactions

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Table 3. Acute Outpatient Medications (continued)

Medication Form Dosage Maximum dose Frequency Formulations Cost* Side
effects
Note: Do not administer dihydroergotamine (nasal DHE or IV DHE) within 24 hours of the last dose of a triptan.
Triptans: Triptans should not be used more than two times per week with a maximum of six times per month to avoid overuse.
FDA approved: Rizatriptan† ≥ 6 years old, almotriptan ≥ 12 years old, zolmitriptan > 12 years old, and sumatriptan/naproxen > 12
years old. Although other triptans are commonly prescribed and may be effective, they are not FDA approved and their safety has
not been established in pediatric patients. A consultation with a neurologist is recommended prior to prescribing these medications.
†Children (< 17 years old) on propranolol: Do not use rizatriptan if < 40 kg; limit single and daily dose to 5 mg if ≥ 40 kg.

May repeat Nausea,

Almotriptan 6.25 or 12.5 Tab: 6.25, Generic $$-$$$
PO 25 mg/24 hours once after somnolence
(Axert®) mg 12.5mg Brand $$$-$$$$
2 hours , dizziness
Nausea,
May repeat Generic N/A
Eletriptan ≥ 50 kg: 20 or weakness
PO 80 mg/24 hours once after Tab: 20,40 mg Brand $$$
(Relpax®) 40 mg dizziness,
2 hours
paresthesia
Flushing,
May repeat
dizziness,
Frovatriptan once after Generic $$$
PO 2.5 mg 5 mg/24 hours Tab: 2.5 mg fatigue,
(Frova®) 2-4 hours Brand $$$$
xerostoma,
paresthesia
May repeat Nausea,
Naratriptan Generic $
PO 1 or 2.5 mg 5 mg/24 hours once after Tab: 1, 2.5 mg dizziness,
(Amerge®) Brand $$$-$$$$
4 hours pain (CNS)
< 40 kg: 10 Nausea,
† May repeat
Rizatriptan < 40 kg: 5 mg mg/24 hours ODT: 5, 10 mg Generic $ dizziness,
PO once after
(Maxalt®) ≥ 40 kg: 10 mg ≥ 40 kg: 20 Tab: 5, 10 mg Brand $$$ weakness,
2 hours
mg/24 hours flushing
25, 50 or 100 100 mg/24 Tab: 25, 50, Generic $
PO
mg hours PO 100 mg Brand $$$
Nausea,
40 mg/24 hours May repeat Intranasal: 5, Generic $$$
Sumatriptan IN 5, 10 or 20 mg dizziness,
intranasal once after 20mg Brand $$$
(Imitrex®) weakness,
2 hours
0.06-1 mg/kg 12 mg/24 hours SC: 4 mg/0.5 Generic $$ flushing
SC
(max: 6 mg) SC ml, 6 mg/0.5 ml Brand $$$
Nausea,
Tab: 85 mg
dizziness,
sumatriptan /
chest pain
Sumatriptan/ 10 mg 85 mg 1 dose 500 mg
Generic N/A and
Naproxen PO sumatriptan/60 sumatriptan/500 every 24 naproxen, 10
Brand $$$$ tightness,
(Treximet®) mg naproxen mg naproxen hours mg sumatriptan
weakness,
/ 60 mg
paresthesia
naproxen
, xerostoma
Tab: 2.5, 5 mg Generic $ Nausea,
2.5 or 5 mg
PO ODT: 2.5, 5 mg Brand $$$ dizziness,
May repeat chest pain
Zolmitriptan
10 mg/24 hours once after and
(Zomig®) Intranasal: 2.5, Generic N/A
IN 2.5 or 5 mg 2 hours tightness,
5mg Brand $$$
weakness,
paresthesia
Vasoconstri
0.5 mg in each 3 mg/24 hours May repeat
ction,
Dihydroergotami nostril for a Do not exceed every 15 Intranasal: Generic $$$$
IN flushing,
ne (Migranal®) total dose of 1 4mg in one min to max 4mg/mL Brand $$$$
nausea
mg week of 3 doses
diarrhea.
* Legend: $=$10-50, $$=$50-99, $$$=100-500, $$$$= >$500. Data obtained from www.goodrx.com was accurate as
of 7/7/2017. Cost based on price per standard package (usually 6-12 doses). Lower dose tablets are usually cheaper
than higher dose tablets. Families should compare prices before having Rx filled as prices can vary widely depending
upon the pharmacy used. Drug companies may supply coupons for some of the products listed.

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Preventative Strategies
See Table 4. Preventative Medications to Consider for Migraine Headaches

General recommendations
1. Preventative medications may be started by a provider who can see the child back within 6-8 weeks (usually
the PCP or a neurologist)

2. Don’t forget that changing life-style behaviors and stress management are the safest preventatives!

3. Consider starting daily preventative medications if child has more than one migraine a week with associated
disability (PedMIDAS score > 10, missing school, missing sports or social activities, etc.)5

• The goal of preventative treatment is to decrease headache frequency to < 4 per month, with decreased
disability for a sustained period of time (typically 4-6 months)5
4. When choosing a preventative:

• Consider child’s age, weight, and comorbidities when starting preventative

• Consider taking advantage of side-effect profile of medication (e.g. consider topiramate for an obese child
because it causes appetite suppression and weight loss)
• For younger children (< 8 years of age) – consider cyproheptadine or topiramate or amitriptyline
• For older children (> 8 years of age) – consider amitriptyline or topiramate
• If overweight or obese – consider topiramate
• If allergies – consider cyproheptadine
• If sleeping difficulties – consider amitriptyline
5. Titration tips

• Refer to Table 4. Preventative medications to consider for titration guidelines

• Start low and go slow – you want to optimize effectiveness and decrease possible side effects
experienced
• During titration, one does not have to achieve “maintenance” dose if patient has improvement/resolution of
headache at lower doses
• Improvement is typically observed after several weeks rather than days of starting treatment
• Medications should not be abandoned before 6-8 weeks unless they are causing side effects7
• For most patients, the goal of preventative medicine is to reduce headache frequency to fewer than 4
headaches per month that respond to acute treatment within 1-2 hours and result in little to no disability
(PedMIDAS score ≤ 10)5,7
6. Discontinuation tips

• Preventative meds should be continued at their target dose for approximately 4-6 months before
discontinuing7
• Tapering off meds over summer break is often the most practical endpoint
• Preventative meds should be weaned slowly (similarly to how they were titrated up), unless side-effects
are considered adverse or patient on lowest dose

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Table 4. Preventative Medications to Consider for Migraine Headaches7

Pediatric/
Medications Titration adolescent Formulations Cost* Side-effects
Dosing
0.2 mg/kg
Starting Dose
(2-4 mg qhs)
Increase by 2-4 mg q week
Cyproheptadine Solution: 2 mg/5mL Generic $
0.2-0.4 mg/kg Sedation, weight gain
(Periactin®) Maintenance dose Tablets: 4 mg Brand N/A
(4-8 mg qhs)
< 7 y/o: 12 mg/day
Maximum dose
≥ 7 y/o: 16 mg/day
0.25-0.5 mg/kg
Starting dose
(5-10 mg qhs) Constipation, dry
0.25 mg/kg (5-10 mg) mouth, arrhythmia,
Increase by Tablets: 10 mg, 25 Generic $
q 2 weeks sedation.
Amitriptyline mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, Brand N/A
1 mg/kg Get EKG for doses > 1
Maintenance dose 100 mg, 150 mg
(10-75 mg qhs) mg/kg/day (or > 40
mg/day)**
1 mg/kg/dose up to
Maximum dose
150 mg/day5
0.5-1 mg/kg
Starting dose
(12.5-25 mg qhs)
Weight loss, kidney
0.5-1 mg/kg (12.5-25 Sprinkles: 15 mg,
Increase by stones, word finding
mg) q 2 weeks 25 mg
Topiramate Generic $ difficulties,
Tablets: 25 mg, 50
(Topamax®) 2-3 mg/kg Brand $$$-$$$$ paresthesias,
Maintenance dose mg, 100 mg, 200
(50-150 mg qhs) glaucoma
mg
4 mg/kg/day
Maximum dose
up to 200 mg/day5
Starting dose 250 mg/day Dizziness, drowsiness,
Solution: 250
alopecia, weight gain,
Increase by 250 mg q week mg/5mL
Valproic Acid Generic $ pancreatitis,
Tablets: 250 mg,
(Depakote®) Maintenance dose 15-20 mg/kg7 Brand $$$ thrombocytopenia,
500 mg
lymphopenia,
Maximum dose 45 mg/kg/day8 Sprinkles 125 mg
hyperammonemia
Starting dose 10 mg TID
Increase by 10 mg q 3 weeks Solution: 4 mg/mL,
8 mg/mL
1-4 mg/kg Generic $
Propranolol*** Maintenance dose Tablets: 10 mg, 20 Hypotension, vivid
(20 to 40 mg TID) Brand $$$-$$$$
mg, 40 mg, 60 dreams, depression
4 mg/kg/day mg, 80 mg
Maximum dose
up to 40 mg TID
2 mg/kg/day
Starting dose
(20-40 mg TID)
1 mg/kg/day (up to 40 Hypotension, nausea,
Increase by
Verapamil mg) weekly Tablets: 40 mg, 80 Generic $ AV block, weight gain.
(Calan®)*** 5 mg/kg mg, 120 mg Brand $$$ Get EKG if on ≥ 240
Maintenance dose
(40-80 mg TID) mg**
360 mg/day
Maximum dose
up to 120 mg TID
* Legend: $=$10-50, $$=$50-99, $$$=100-500, $$$$= >$500. Data obtained from www.goodrx.com was accurate as
of 7/7/2017. Cost based on price per standard package (usually 30-60 tablets). Lower dose tablets are usually cheaper
than higher dose tablets. Families should compare prices before having Rx filled as prices can vary widely depending
upon pharmacy used. Drug companies may supply coupons for some products listed
**See Appendix A. Frequently Asked Questions, for more information on EKGs in children
*** Propranolol and verapamil: start on regular formulation for titration, and for maintenance can switch to appropriate
ER formulation (i.e. 80 mg TID = 240 mg ER q day)

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PROVIDER TOOLS

Frequently Asked Questions for Providers

Headache Intake Questionnaire
This tool can be given to patients for them to complete while in the waiting or exam rooms. Providers then can use this
information during their visit.

Headache Diary
The headache diary is for patients to fill out to keep track of their headaches, any patterns, and frequency of
headaches. The diary can be given to patients for them to complete while in the waiting or in exam rooms.

Telephone Triage Neurology Clinic: Headaches

PARENT | CAREGIVER EDUCATION

1. Instruct patients and/or parent/caregiver about measures to help prevent headaches such as11:

• Fluids
• Sleep
• Nutrition
• Exercise/stretching
• Electronics overuse
Click on the links below for printable handouts to educate parents/caregivers and patients about measures to
help prevent headaches:

• Headaches in Children (English)

• Headaches in Children (Spanish)
• Headaches and Liquids (English)
• Headaches and Liquids (Spanish)
• Practicing Yoga for Chronic Headaches (English)
• Practicing Yoga for Chronic Headaches (Spanish)

2. Instruct parent/caregiver and patient about keeping a headache diary

3. Instruct parent/caregiver and patient about medications, including optimal scheduling of rescue and
preventative medications (if applicable), use of OTC medications, etc.

4. Manage expectations of the parent/caregiver and patient, including informing them that changes are often
seen after a period of time such as weeks or months, rather than days5

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FOLLOW-UP

When to see your patient back in your clinic:

• New onset headaches: follow-up in 2 to 4 weeks
• Children with high frequency headaches (>8 headaches per month) and new changes to treatment plan: follow-
up in 4 to 6 weeks
• Children with low frequency headaches (<8 headaches per month) and new changes to treatment plan: follow-
up in 8 to 12 weeks
• Children with no changes and stable: follow–up in 10 to 12 weeks, up to 1 year

When to refer to neurology:

• Abnormal neurological exam (consider calling neurology for advice on urgency of referral and obtaining MRI
without contrast)
• Concern for secondary headache
• Worsening headaches
• Not responding to preventative medications

When to refer to behavioral health/mental health:

• Have low threshold as depression and anxiety are comorbid with headaches
• Anyone with frequent absences from school (emphasize need for formal stress coping/pain coping)

When to refer to concussion clinic:

• Please refer to the Concussion Pathway for additional information

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APPENDIX A. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) FOR PROVIDERS

Are aspirin or aspirin containing substances okay to give children for their headache?
Aspirin and aspirin containing drugs such as Excedrin are relatively safe in adolescents. There are less than 40 cases
of Reyes reported per year, with 40% of cases in children less than 5 years old and over 90% of cases in children less
than 15 years old. We recommend cautioning the adolescent to avoid aspirin during a varicella- or flu-like illness or
with high fever. All adolescents taking aspirin should have varicella and influenza vaccinations.

What is abdominal migraine? How do you treat it?

An abdominal migraine is an idiopathic disorder seen mainly in children as recurrent attacks of moderate to severe
midline abdominal pain associated with vasomotor symptoms, nausea and vomiting, lasting 2 to 72 hours and with
normality between episodes. A mild headache may occur during these episodes2.

Diagnostic criteria include at least five attacks within 28 days fulfilling criteria A-C:

A. Pain has at least two of the following three characteristics:

• Midline location, periumbilical, or poorly localized

• Dull or “just sore” quality
• Moderate or severe intensity
B. During attacks, at least two of the following:

• Anorexia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pallor
C. Attacks last 2 to 72 hours when untreated or unsuccessfully treated

D. Complete freedom from symptoms between attacks

E. Not attributed to another disorder

A gastrointestinal disorder must be ruled out. Consider referral to gastroenterology (GI).

Abdominal migraine can be treated with cyproheptadine and amitriptyline.

What is a complicated or complex migraine?

I have a patient with this type of headache, is there something I should do differently?
Complicated or complex migraines were previously used terms to describe headaches that are associated with more
than one aura type. Migraine with unilateral motor weakness or stumbling gait/ataxia are defined by the ICHD-III as
“hemiplegic migraines” and “migraine with brainstem aura”, respectively. These individuals should have one MRI with
MRA of the brain and MRA of the neck to evaluate for structural or vascular abnormality including dissection. They
also should not be prescribed triptans or ergotamines. Strongly consider a one-time evaluation by neurology to rule out
other etiologies.

Should I avoid OCPs in my patient with migraines with aura?

Adolescent women should be counseled on risks of estrogen containing OCPs and smoking and whenever possible
placed on low or no estrogen containing contraceptive options. Smoking increases stroke risk further. Consider referral
to Adolescent Medicine if additional guidance is needed.

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What are the contraindications for a triptan and how young can you give triptans?
Contraindications include:

• Hemiplegic migraines and basilar migraines

• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Ischemic heart disease
• Prinz-Metal angina
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Multiple risk factors for atherosclerotic vascular disease
• Primary vasculopathies
Rizatriptan (Maxalt®) is approved for children 6 years of age and older. Almotriptan (Axert®) Sumatriptan/naproxen
sodium (Treximet) and zolmitriptan (Zomig®) are approved for use in children 12 years of age and older. Sumatriptan
(Imitrex®) have supportive efficacy and safety data in adolescents.

When should I get an EKG?

There are no current guidelines or evidence in children and adolescents for surveillance of QT prolongation or AV
block in individuals on amitriptyline or verapamil respectively. In adults there are significantly increased QT intervals on
higher doses of amitriptyline. Verapamil may cause bradycardia and AV block, therefore, EKG can be done when
increasing verapamil past 240 mg daily or any patient with bradycardia.

Should my patient get allergy testing?

There is no evidence for allergy testing in children with headache.

What is the evidence for nutraceuticals/vitamins and minerals? (Quality of evidence: D)

In children, the use of vitamins and minerals for prevention and treatment of headache is not well studied5. Coenzyme
Q10, magnesium, and riboflavin are likely to be relatively safe; however, their efficacy is not well established. These
supplements are most likely to be efficacious in menstrual migraine. Butterbur is from a toxic plant with teratogenic,
carcinogenic, and hepatotoxic properties and should not be used. Feverfew in adults is safe; however, efficacy in
children is unclear.

Should I get their vision tested or send them to ophthalmology for dilated eye exam?
Basic vision testing in your office should screen for common refractive errors; however, correction of these refractory
errors does not significantly reduce the number of migraines or tension headaches. If patient has red flags for
increased ICP or fundi are not well visualized, patient should be referred for a dilated eye exam.

I have a patient with headaches persistent after a minor or major head trauma, who should I
refer them to, Neurology clinic or concussion clinic?
Patients should be referred to concussion clinic first, 720-777-1234, then if concussion clinic feels that patient would
benefit from neurological consultation, they will notify neurology clinic.

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APPENDIX B. HEADACHE INTAKE QUESTIONNAIRE

To be administered by provider

1. When did your headaches start? (choose one)

Less than 1 month ago 1-5 months ago 6-12 months ago More than 1 year ago

2. How many days per month do you have a headache? #____headache days per month

3. Where are your headaches usually located?

Forehead Temples/Side Top Back Behind eyes On one side All Over

4. In general, are your headaches (choose one): Worsening Staying the same Improving

5. Your headaches mostly or usually feel like:

Pounding/Throbbing/Pulsating Squeezing Stabbing Pressure Dull

6. On a scale of 0-10, on average, how severe are your headaches: _______

7. On average, how long do your headaches last in HOURS? ______ hours

8. Your headaches are worse in the morning afternoon evening during the night

9. Do you have any of the following symptoms prior to your headache?

Vision changes Numbness Weakness in ONE body part Other: ______________

10. During the headache, do you have any of the following symptoms?
Nausea Bright lights bother me Physical activity bothers me Vomiting
Loud noises bother me Weakness in ONE body part

11. Did your headache start after a head injury? Yes No

12. Did your headache start after any type of infection? Yes No

13. Are your headaches worse when you are lying down? Yes No

14. Do your headaches wake you up in the middle of the night? Yes No If yes, how often?
_____

15. The following things trigger my headaches:

Stress Lack of sleep Physical exercise Dehydration Skipping meals
Other: _____

16. When you get a headache, what medication do you take to help stop it?
Medication______________________Dose__________ Does it help? Yes No
Medication______________________Dose__________ Does it help? Yes No
Medication______________________Dose__________ Does it help? Yes No
17. How many days a month do you take a medication to stop a headache after it has started?
____days
18. How many days in the last month did you miss school because of headaches? ____ days
19. How many days in the last month did you miss activities/sports because of headaches?
_____days

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APPENDIX C. PEDIATRIC MIGRAINE DISABILITY SCALE (PEDMIDAS)

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APPENDIX D: HEADACHE DIARY

• Mark if you had a headache, how long it lasted, and how bad it was on a scale of 0-10
• Mark what treatments you tried (including sleep, relaxation, medications, etc.)

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Did you have Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No
headache?
How long? Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours
How bad? /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10
Treatment(s)
tried?
Was it
Helpful?
Did you have Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No
headache?
How long? Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours
How bad? /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10
Treatments
tried?
Was it
Helpful?
Did you have Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No
headache?
How long? Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours
How bad? /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10
Treatments
tried?
Was it
Helpful?
Did you have Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No
headache?
How long? Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours
How bad? /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10
Treatments
tried?
Was it
Helpful?
Did you have Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No
headache?
How long? Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours
How bad? /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10 /10
Treatments
tried?
Was it
Helpful?

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APPENDIX E. HEADACHES IN CHILDREN FAMILY TEACHING

Headaches in Children
Headaches are a common problem in children. Approximately 11% of children and 28% of adolescents experience
recurrent headaches.

What causes headaches?

There are different theories about the cause of headaches. Often several family members are affected, suggesting
genetic factors are partly responsible. Other possible reasons for migraine include: blood vessel sensitivity, brain and
nervous system changes, and serotonin system abnormalities. Medicines used to treat headache disorders often work
on these pathways.

Headache Types
Migraine Headaches
Migraine headaches are recurrent headaches that occur at intervals of days, weeks, or months. Migraines generally
have some of the following symptoms and characteristics:

• They can last for 2 to 72 hours if not treated with rest, sleep, or medications
• They are often located on one or both sides of the head near the temples or eyes
• Children complain of a throbbing, pounding, or pulsating pain
• They are worse with normal daily activities or exertion such as climbing stairs, running, riding a bicycle
• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, difficulties with bright lights or loud sounds, or sensitivity to smells commonly
occur with the migraines
• Warnings, called auras, may start before the headache. These auras can include blurry vision, flashing lights,
colored spots, strange tastes, or weird sensations and usually occur 5 to 60 minutes before the onset of the
headache.

Tension-Type Headaches
Tension-type headaches are recurrent headaches that generally have some of the following symptoms and
characteristics:

• They can last from 30 minutes to several days

• They feel like a band tightening around the head
• Sometime muscle tightness is noticed
• Children may be sensitive to bright light or loud sounds

Chronic Headaches
• Both migraines and tension-type headaches can become chronic, meaning that they occur at least 15 days per
month for greater than 3 months
• Chronic headaches can result from taking some types of medication—for example, acetaminophen (Tylenol),
ibuprofen (Motrin), caffeine, and some prescription medications—almost every day. These are called
medication overuse headaches. The most effective way to make these headaches better is to stop taking pain
medicines altogether for 2 to 3 weeks. After that time, use of pain-relievers is limited to no more that 2 to 3 times
per week.

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Headache Treatment
What do I do if my child gets a headache?
• Follow your health care provider’s instructions in using the medication and treatment plan
• Have your child take their abortive (“as needed”) medication as soon as they feel pain
• If you are needing abortive medications more than 2 to 3 doses per week, contact your health care provider.
Taking abortive medications every day can actually cause an increase in your child’s headaches.
• Develop a headache treatment plan with your health care provider so your child can take abortive medication at
school as recommended
• Drinking more fluids (especially sports drinks) during a headache may be helpful in alleviating the headache
quicker
What can I do to prevent my child's headaches?
The most important things to help decrease the frequency and severity of your child’s headaches include:

• FLUIDS: Make sure your child drinks enough fluids. Children and adolescents need 4 to 8 glasses (32-64 oz) of
fluids per day. Caffeine should be avoided. Sports drinks without caffeine may also help during a headache as
well as during exercise by keeping sugar and sodium levels normal.
• SLEEP: Make sure your child gets plenty of regular sleep at night (but does not oversleep). Fatigue and over-
exertion are two factors that can trigger headaches. Most children and adolescents need to obtain 8 to 10 hours
of sleep each night and keep a regular sleep schedule to help prevent headaches.
• NUTRITION: Be sure that your child eats balanced meals at regular hours. Do not allow child to skip meals. Try
to avoid foods that seem to trigger headaches. Remember that every child is different, so your child's triggers
may be different from another child. Possible food triggers include aged cheese, artificial sweeteners, caffeine,
chocolate, citrus fruits, cured meats (packaged lunchmeats, sausage, pepperoni), MSG, nuts, onions, and salty
foods.
• EXERCISE/STRETCHING: Make sure your child gets at least 45 minutes of aerobic activity that increases their
heart rate and 5 to 10 minutes of stretching every day. This does not include things such as weight-lifting.
• STRESS: Plan and schedule your child's activities sensibly. Try to avoid overcrowded schedules or stressful
and potentially upsetting situations. Consider stress management counseling or relaxation techniques if stress
seems to be contributing to your child’s headaches.
• ELECTRONIC OVERUSE: Try not to exceed 2 hours per day of TV, movies, videogames, or computer use.
Turn off all electronic devices at least 1 hour before bedtime to allow time to unwind.

Worrisome symptoms that should be brought to your doctor’s attention include:

• Headaches that awaken your child from sleep
• Early morning vomiting without upset stomach
• Worsening or more frequent headaches
• Personality changes
• Complaints that “this is the worst headache I’ve ever had!”
• The headache is different than previous headaches
• Headaches with fever or a stiff neck or headaches following an injury

Diaries
Keep a diary of your child's headaches. Write down everything that might relate to your child's headache (food,
activities, or stressors), how long it lasted, and the pain rating on a 0-10 scale. There are daily, weekly, and monthly
headache diaries available on the American Headache Society website: www.achenet.org.

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Websites for more information on headaches

www.achenet.org dawnbuse.com
www.migraines.org headachereliefguide.com
www.discoveryhealth.com anxietybc.com

References
1. Abu-Arafeh, I, Razak, S, Silvaraman, B, Graham, C. Prevalance of headache and migriane in children and
adolescents: a systematic review of population-based studies. Dev Med & Child Neuro 2010, 52: 1088-1097.
2. The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (beta version). Cephalalgia 2013;33:629-
808.
3. Lipton, RB, Manack, A, Ricci, JA, Chee, E, Turkel, CC, Winner, P. Prevalence and burden of chronic migraine
in adolescents: results of the chronic daily headache in adolescents study (C-dAS). Headache 2011
May;51(5):693-706.
4. Bigal, ME & Lipton, RB. Concepts and mechanisms of migraine chronification. Headache: The Journal of Head
and Face Pain 2008;48:7–15.
5. Kacperski, J, Kabbouche, MA, O’Brien, HL, Weberding, JL. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2016;9(1):53–68.
6. Lewis, DW, Ashwal, S, Dahl, G, Dorbad, D, Hirtz, D; Prensky, A, Jarjour, I. Practice parameter: Evaluation of
children and adolescents with recurrent headaches. Report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the
American Academy of Neurology and the Practice Committee of the Child Neurology Society. Neurology
2002;59:490–498.
7. Hickman, C, Lewis, KS, Little, R, Rastogi, RG, Yonker, M. Prevention for pediatric and adolescent migraine.
Headache 2015 Nov-Dec;55(10):1371-81.
8. Hayes, LL, Coley, BD, Karmazyn, B…& Wootton-Gorges, SL. American College of Radiology ACR
Appropriateness Criteria: Headache - Child. Expert Panel on Pediatric Imaging. ACR Appropriateness
Criteria® headache - child. [online publication]. Reston (VA): American College of Radiology (ACR); 2012
9. Lewis D, Ashwal S, Hershey A, Hirtz D, Yonker M, Silberstein S. Practice parameter: pharmacological
treatment of migraine headache in children and adolescents: report of the American Academy of Neurology
Quality Standards Subcommittee and the Practice Committee of the Child Neurology Society. Neurology
2004;63:2215-24.
10. Hershey AD, Kabbouche MA, Powers SW. Treatment of pediatric and adolescent migraine. Pediatr Ann
2010;39:416-23.
11. Lewis, D. Pediatric migraine. Neurol Clin 2009 May;27(2):481-501.
12. Craddock L, Ray LD. Pediatric migraine teaching for families. J Spec Pediatr Nurs 2012;17:98-107.
13. Classifying recommendations for clinical practice guidelines. Pediatrics 2004;114:874-7.

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CLINICAL IMPROVEMENT TEAM MEMBERS

Scott Turner, DNP, FNP | Child Neurology
Angelina Koehler, MA, PNP | Child Neurology
Marcy Yonker, MD | Child Neurology
Amanda Foss, BSN, RN, CNRN | Headache Program Coordinator, Neurology
Jennifer Jorgensen, PharmD | Pharmacy
Marius Birlea, MD | Adult Neurology

APPROVED BY
Clinical Care Guideline and Measures Review Committee – November 14, 2017
Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committee – November 2, 2017

Clinical Pathways/Quality
MANUAL/DEPARTMENT

ORIGINATION DATE November 1, 2013

LAST DATE OF REVIEW OR REVISION November 14, 2017

APPROVED BY

Lalit Bajaj, MD, MPH

Medical Director, Clinical Effectiveness

REVIEW | REVISION SCHEDULE

Scheduled for full review on date here November 14, 2021

Clinical pathways are intended for informational purposes only. They are current at the date of publication and are reviewed on a
regular basis to align with the best available evidence. Some information and links may not be available to external viewers.
External viewers are encouraged to consult other available sources if needed to confirm and supplement the content presented in
the clinical pathways. Clinical pathways are not intended to take the place of a physician’s or other health care provider’s advice,
and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or other medical condition. The information should not be used
in place of a visit, call, consultation or advice of a physician or other health care provider. Furthermore, the information is provided
for use solely at your own risk. CHCO accepts no liability for the content, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis
of the information provided. The information provided to you and the actions taken thereof are provided on an “as is” basis without
any warranty of any kind, express or implied, from CHCO. CHCO declares no affiliation, sponsorship, nor any partnerships with any
listed organization, or its respective directors, officers, employees, agents, contractors, affiliates, and representatives.

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