Is It Worth a Try?
If you suffer from frequent migraines and despite medications, they still are impacting your work and relationships and life, it may be worth talking to your doctor about this treatment option. Cefaly has been approved for use in adults 18 years of age and older and is only available by prescription from a doctor.
Details on the Electrodes
- The electrodes can be used for about 20 “treatments sessions.” As long as they continue to adhere well to the skin on the forehead, they may be re-used. Before applying the electrode, the skin on the forehead should always be cleaned and degreased thoroughly with soap and water. Once the session ends, the electrode should be stuck back onto its clear plastic backing sheet and stored in its pouch.
- The device runs on batteries. Two good-quality alkaline AAA batteries last around one month based on a one-session-per-day use.
- The treatments may feel strange and perhaps a bit painful. The sensation produced by Cefaly is unusual, but according to the company, most people get used to it quickly — after a few sessions. Some people who are more sensitive may find the treatments slightly painful, but not compared to a migraine. (There is an option to press a button during the session when the sensation becomes slightly uncomfortable to limit the signal intensity.) Only about 1 % of patients have found the sensation too uncomfortable to continue with treatment.
Is This Treatment Safe for Everyone?
There are certain conditions that limit this device as an option for treatment. You cannot use Cefaly:
- If you have a metal or electronic device within your head
- If you have not been diagnosed with migraine, but have pain of unknown origin
- If you have a cardiac pacemaker or implanted or wearable defibrillator. This may cause interference with pacing, electric shock or death.
Considerations
Cefaly is not covered yet by insurance plans and is not expected to be for at least a year or more. It is also not cheap — the device costs $349 and a basic kit of electrodes cost $25.
The most common side effects include:
- Intolerance to the feeling of Cefaly on the forehead: 1.25%
- Sensation of fatigue during and after the session: 0.65%
- Irritation of the skin on the forehead from the electrodes: 0.22%
Cefaly Technology is a Belgium-based company specializing in electronics for medical applications. To learn more, ask your doctor if this might be a treatment option to consider.
