Which of the following is NOT a typical preventive therapy for migraine?

• A. Beta-blockers
• B. Calcium channel blockers
• C. Tricyclic antidepressants
• D. Antibiotics

Answer: (D)

Migraine prevention works by modulating brain excitability and vascular function over time, not by treating infections. Beta-blockers reduce attack frequency by dampening adrenergic influences on cerebral vessels and pain pathways. Calcium channel blockers can help some patients by decreasing calcium-dependent neural activity and promoting vascular stability. Tricyclic antidepressants, like amitriptyline, modulate monoamine neurotransmitters and can also improve sleep disturbances, which may lower migraine days. Antibiotics have no effect on the mechanisms of migraine and are used to treat bacterial infections, not prevent migraines. Hence, antibiotics are not a typical preventive therapy for migraine.