NCT05734625 · Mayo Clinic
Efficacy of Nerve Blocks for Episodic Migraine
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to see how well blocking two to ten of the scalp nerves (that give feeling to the scalp and are painful during migraine headaches) with bupivacaine anesthetic (numbing medication) and low dose methylprednisolone (cortisone-like medicine or steroid) work for treating and preventing migraines.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to see how well blocking two to ten of the scalp nerves (that give feeling to the scalp and are painful during migraine headaches) with bupivacaine anesthetic (numbing medication) and low dose methylprednisolone (cortisone-like medicine or steroid) work for treating and preventing migraines. Our hypothesis is that the pain of most episodic migraine headaches can be eliminated and prevented for months by blocking the nerves that give pain sensation during a migraine.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Suffering from episodic migraines with and without aura occurring at least four times a month but less than 15 times a month at a severity of 5/10 pain level or greater.
- Willing to not start or stop any new medication to treat or prevent migraines during the six months of the trial.
- History fits the definition of migraine:
- Have a history of episodic headache lasting 4-72 hours with at least 2 of the 4 following: unilateral location, pulsating/throbbing quality, moderate-severe intensity, aggravation by/causing avoidance of routine physical activity, and
- Have a history of at least one of the following: nausea and/or vomiting, photophobia (seek out a dark room during a headache because that feels better), phonophobia (seek out a quiet environment during a headache because that feels better)
Exclusion criteria
- Headache in cheeks (infraorbital nerve distribution) in addition to scalp distribution.
- Women who report being currently pregnant or lactating or are of child-bearing potential or are likely to become pregnant during the medication phase and are unwilling to use a reliable form of contraception. Acceptable forms include:
- Hormonal methods, such as birth control pills, patches, injections, vaginal ring, or implants
- Barrier methods (such as a condom or diaphragm) used with a spermicide (a foam, cream, or gel that kills sperm)
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
- Total hysterectomy or tubal ligation
- Abstinence (no sex)
- Allergy or documented contraindication to amide anesthetics (bupivacaine, lidocaine, ropivacaine, prilocaine, mepivacaine, etidocaine or levobupivacaine) or corticosteroids
- Previously received peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs)
- Currently anticoagulated
- Currently receiving Botox for migraine prophylaxis
- Started on new medication in the prior two months with known migraine-preventive efficacy or planning to start any new medication during the study
- Currently using opiate medications for pain
- History of drug or alcohol abuse within the prior two years
- Have unstable medical or surgical diseases that could impair participation in this study
- History of craniotomies, burr holes, skull fractures and/or have open skull defects
- Patients with implanted nerve stimulators or shunts
- Phobia of needles
- Active skin or soft tissue infection overlying injection sites
- Diagnosis of medication overuse, cervicogenic, post-traumatic, or cluster headaches or history on pre-enrollment questionnaire of cluster headache symptoms.
Where
- Rochester, Minnesota
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations