Nerve block or antidepressant? study tests two migraine treatments Head-to-Head
NCT ID NCT02090998
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study compares two treatments for transformed migraine (chronic daily headache): a sphenopalatine ganglion nerve block using lidocaine gel applied inside the nose, versus daily oral amitriptyline (Elavil), an antidepressant often used for migraine prevention. Ten adults aged 18 to 90 with a formal migraine diagnosis are randomly assigned to one of the two groups. The goal is to see which approach better reduces the number and severity of daily headaches.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
lidocaine gel and amitriptyline
What this could lead to
If one method proves more effective, it could offer a better option for managing chronic migraines with fewer side effects.
What could go wrong
This is a very small early-phase study with only 10 participants, so results may not apply widely. Both treatments have known side effects.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School , Pain Center of NJ
New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08901, United States