Received: 27.07.2025 Accepted: 30.09.2025 Published online: 31.10.2025
УДК: 616.857-07-085
DOI: 10.53511/pharmkaz.2025.5.3
ASSESSMENT OF PHYSICIANS’ KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE IN MIGRAINE MANAGEMENT IN KAZAKHSTAN
Kuanova L.B.¹, Asanova A.A.², Zhulamanova G.M. ¹
¹Clinical and Academic Department of Internal Medicine, “University Medical Center”, Astana,
Republic of Kazakhstan
²Department of Science, “University Medical Center”, Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan
Resume: This study presents the results of a survey conducted among physicians in the Republic of Kazakhstan to assess their knowledge, clinical practices, and pharmacological preferences in the management of patients with migraine. Particular attention was paid to identifying educational and organizational gaps.
Objective: To evaluate the alignment of real-world clinical practice with international guidelines and to identify key barriers in the provision of care for migraine patients.
Materials and Methods: An anonymous questionnaire-based survey was conducted among neurologists. The questionnaire included items on diagnostic approaches (ICHD-III, ICD-10, national protocols), the use of MRI, pharmacotherapy, hormonal contraception in women with migraine, preventive treatment, and barriers in clinical practice.
Results: Only 34.9% of respondents consistently use the ICHD-III (The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition). Overdiagnosis was noted in 26% of cases, while 9% did not diagnose migraine at all. MRI was considered mandatory by 64% of physicians, which does not align with international recommendations. The most frequently prescribed medications were NSAIDs (55%) and triptans (32%). Only 9% correctly identified the preferred type of contraception for migraine with aura (progestins). Preventive therapy was recommended for patients with ≥4 attacks or severe episodes, most commonly using beta-blockers, antidepressants, or combination regimens. The use of monoclonal antibodies was limited due to high cost and lack of awareness. The main barriers reported were lack of time (65%), insufficient knowledge (61%), and economic factors (74%).
Conclusion: Migraine management in Kazakhstan does not fully comply with current clinical guidelines. Significant gaps were identified in physicians’ knowledge and approaches. Educational initiatives and improved access to modern preventive and therapeutic options are urgently needed.
Keywords: migraine, Knowledge-Attitudes-Practice model, survey-based study.
