ASK DR. JOE
Special Feature
Q: Can you tell me about the benefits and safety of Botox for migraines?
A: The FDA has approved Botox for the treatment of chronic migraine. This approval was issued because the benefits outweighed the risks in clinical trials. However, there is no significant evidence that Botox is beneficial or indicated for CADASIL patients. Therefore, decisions of taking this drug should be made in consultation with your primary care physician or neurologists.
Jennette asks: Is it common for patients to get muscle spasms? I have been getting constant pain in my neck and very bad pains in my legs and back.
A: There are no studies linking muscle spasms to CADASIL. However, you should discuss with your doctor a management plan to control this problem.
Maria asks: Does CADASIL affect the healing ability of other health issues? I just had my gallbladder taken out but for months before that I thought it was something from CADASIL.
A: The full spectrum of CADASIL-associated symptoms has yet to be defined. To date there is no evidence indicating an association between CADASIL and healing defects or gallbladder problems. However, all this information is useful for physicians and scientists so I recommend that you discuss these issues with your neurologists.
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This “Ask Dr. Joe” special feature article was initially contributed to the March 2013 issue of EMBRACE newsletter published by CADASIL Association. Thank you to Dr. Joseph Arboleda-Velasquez for his collaboration to answer questions from the CADASIL community. Please note this is not medical advise, always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider.
