Droperidol Versus Metoclopramide + Diphenhydramine for the Treatment of Primary Headaches

Droperidol Versus Metoclopramide + Diphenhydramine for the Treatment of Primary Headaches in the Emergency Department: A Prospective Randomized, Double-blinded Trial.

The purpose of this study is to determine if droperidol is equally as effective as metoclopramide for treatment of primary headaches in the Emergency Department.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years old to 65 years old, diagnosis of primary headache

Exclusion Criteria:

• Allergy to study medications, pregnant, breast-feeding, prisoners, non-english speaking, not eligible to receive droperidol based on ED protocol (see below), patients in whom head trauma, infection, vascular disorders, and disorders of facial or cranial structures are suspected

ED Droperidol Protocol

Droperidol must NOT be used in patients with any of the following:

• Known or suspected QT prolongation, including congenital long QT syndrome

• Cardiac Disease [cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, bradycardia (< 50 bpm)]

• History of the following:

  • Renal failure
  • Cerebrovascular disease
  • Diabetes or hypoglycemia
  • Alcoholism/alcohol abuse
  • Pituitary insufficiency
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Hypothermia
  • Anorexia

• Advanced age (>65 yrs)

• Use of the following medications: digoxin, benzodiazepine, diuretics, IV opiates, or other medications known to prolong the QTc interval.