American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ABIM Certification Exam with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Strengthen understanding with flashcards, hints, and thorough review materials. Ace your test!

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Which of the following is NOT considered a first-line medication for chronic migraine prevention?

  1. Topiramate

  2. Beta Blocker

  3. Verapamil

  4. Valpro

The correct answer is: Verapamil

In the context of migraine prevention, first-line medications are typically those that have been well-established through clinical studies to effectively reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. Topiramate, beta blockers, and valproate have all been shown to be effective options for chronic migraine prevention, which is why they are considered first-line treatments. Verapamil, on the other hand, is primarily a calcium channel blocker that is used primarily for the treatment of cluster headaches rather than chronic migraines. While it may have some utility in preventing migraines in specific cases, it is not recognized as a standard first-line medication for chronic migraine prevention. This distinction highlights why verapamil is the correct answer to the question of which medication is not considered first-line for chronic migraine prevention.