Digestive Enzyme Adjunct to Oral Headache Medication to Improve Absorption and Reduce Vomiting

Abstract

Objective:

To report a case in which a digestive enzyme complex (Nature's Plus Digestive Enzymes: pancreatin, pepsin, ox bile extract, malt diatase, and papain) apparently improved the absorption and efficacy of an oral headache medication and alleviated vomiting associated with the headache.

Case Summary:

A 47-year-old white woman with a history of adverse drug reactions and allergies had been experiencing one to four disabling headaches per week for 2 years. One or two headaches each week would be accompanied by vomiting. This patient experienced adverse effects with most standard headache medications. For 40 months since taking a complex of digestive enzymes as an adjunct to her headache medication, the patient's vomiting has been eliminated, and her postheadache symptoms have been reduced.

Discussion:

Altered digestive processes are a common finding in severe headache episodes. Exogenous digestive enzymes may facilitate the absorption of oral medication during gastric disruption and consequently increase drug efficacy and the relief of symptoms.

Conclusions:

Digestive enzymes merit further study to ascertain their effectiveness in increasing the absorption and efficacy of oral medications prescribed for headaches accompanied by emesis.