In migraine patients the effect of acupuncture on NO

The purpose of this study is to contribute to efforts to understand the pathophysiology of migraine and create an alternative perspective for prophylaxis and treatment of migraine attacks.Acupuncture treatment was applied to the 22 volunteer migraine patients.The acupuncture treatment consists of five sessions two per week. Blood sample was collected from study group before session, after 1. session and after 5.session.From control group blood sample was collected once.Serum NO levels were statistically significant in migraine group compared to control group.(p<0,05)After the first session of acupuncture treatment , despite the low level of NO in migraine group there was no statistically significant difference.After the 5?th session the NO levels were statistically significant in the migraine group (p<0.05).In this study acupuncture treatment appeared to be effective by lowering the levels of serum NO. Although earlier studies showing the effect of NO in migraine; this has been the first study in this field. that shows the effect of acupuncture on NO in migraine patients.We think the effect of acupuncture on nitric oxide mechanisms in migraine patients revealed further animal and human studies are necessary.Key Words: Migraine, acupuncture, nitric oxide