Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/17/2025

Migraine Management with Yaz

Contraindications and Precautions

  • The American Academy of Neurology recommends that combined hormonal contraceptives like Yaz are absolutely contraindicated in women with migraine with aura, due to an associated increase in risk of stroke 1
  • Yaz should not be used in patients with migraine with aura, as it is an absolute contraindication 1, 2

Alternative Treatments for Migraine Prevention

  • The American Headache Society recommends beta-blockers, such as atenolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol, and propranolol, as first-line preventive medications for migraine prevention 1, 2
  • Angiotensin II receptor blockers, such as candesartan, are also recommended as first-line preventive medications for migraine prevention 1, 2
  • Anticonvulsants, such as topiramate, are recommended as first-line preventive medications for migraine prevention 1, 2
  • Amitriptyline, flunarizine, and sodium valproate are recommended as second-line preventive medications for migraine prevention 1, 2
  • CGRP monoclonal antibodies, such as erenumab, fremanezumab, and eptinezumab, are recommended as third-line preventive medications for migraine prevention 1, 2
  • OnabotulinumtoxinA is recommended as a third-line preventive medication for migraine prevention 1

Monitoring and Follow-up

  • The American Academy of Neurology recommends evaluating response to treatment within 2-3 months after initiation or change in treatment 1
  • Headache calendars should be used to track attack frequency, severity, and medication use 1

REFERENCES

2

Migraine Prevention Guidelines [LINK]

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025