Evidence supporting the use of: Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
For the health condition: Headache (tension)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) has some scientific evidence supporting its use in the prevention of headache, specifically for migraine headaches, but not primarily for tension-type headaches. Several clinical studies and systematic reviews have demonstrated that high-dose riboflavin supplementation (typically 400 mg per day) can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks in adults, with some benefit also observed in children. The proposed mechanism is related to riboflavin's role in mitochondrial energy metabolism; since migraine sufferers may have impaired mitochondrial function, riboflavin supplementation could improve cellular energy production and reduce the occurrence of migraines. Guidelines from organizations such as the American Academy of Neurology and the Canadian Headache Society include riboflavin as a potentially effective, low-risk preventive therapy for migraines.

However, there is little direct scientific evidence supporting the use of riboflavin specifically for tension-type headaches. Tension headaches have different underlying mechanisms, often involving muscle tension and stress, rather than the neurological and metabolic factors seen in migraines. As such, while riboflavin is commonly used and recommended for migraine prevention, its use for tension headaches is not well supported by clinical trials or guideline recommendations. The evidence rating is 2, reflecting modest support for migraines but insufficient data for tension-type headaches.

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Other ingredients used for Headache (tension)

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