If you’re one of the million Americans who suffer from migraine headaches, you know how debilitating they can be. The American Migraine Foundation reports that migraine affects over 37 million men, women, and children in the United States.
One of the best ways to find relief is through Botox injections. However, you may be wondering: does insurance cover Botox for migraines?
Read on to know more about how Botox can help with migraines and what your insurance coverage may look like.
How Does Botox Work?
Migraines are thought to be caused by overactive nerves. Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles that these nerves supply. It decreases migraine frequency by preventing migraines before they start.
Botox blocks the release of a chemical called acetylcholine. This chemical is responsible for sending signals between nerve cells. By blocking the release of this chemical, botox can help to reduce or even eliminate migraine headaches.
Botox injections are usually given every 12 weeks. The number of injections and the location will depend on the severity of your migraines.
Read more: How often can you safely have Botox?
Insurance Coverage For Botox Injections
Most insurance companies will cover at least a portion of the cost of botox injections for migraines. However, coverage may vary depending on your plan. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered under your plan.
Some of the eligibility criteria that insurance companies use to determine coverage for botox injections include:
1) Number of Migraines: You must have a certain number of migraines per month to be eligible for coverage. This number varies depending on the insurance company, but it is typically between eight and twelve migraines per month.
2) Previous Treatment: You may be required to try other treatments for migraines before your insurance company covers botox injections. In some cases, your insurance company may only cover a portion of the cost of botox injections. In this case, you may be responsible for paying the remaining balance out-of-pocket.
3) Patient is Diagnosed With Chronic Headaches: Some insurance companies will only cover botox injections if you have been diagnosed with chronic headaches by a doctor.
4) Persistent Headaches Despite Taking Medication: If you are taking medication for your migraines but are still experiencing a high number of headaches, you may be eligible for coverage.
These medicines include:
a) Anti-seizure medications
b) Antidepressants
c) Beta-blockers
d) Calcium channel blockers
e) Tricyclic antidepressants
For example, antidepressants like amitriptyline and nortriptyline are sometimes used to prevent migraines. If you have tried one or more of these medications and have not experienced relief, you may be eligible for medicaid cover for botox.
If you want to best botox injections in Chicago, contact Pain and Spine Institute. Our board-certified pain management specialists offer the latest, most effective treatment options for chronic pain, including botox injections for migraines.
