Migraine medications

Some people are so bothered by headaches that they need to take medication. In addition to regular painkillers, there are migraine medications you can take during an attack called triptans. If you suffer from frequent migraine attacks, you can also take daily medication to prevent new attacks.

Acute medications

During a migraine attack, taking acute medications can help. Acute medications are a collective term for painkillers, anti-nausea medications, and triptans. The medication is most effective when taken early in the attack.

Acute medications are often taken in a different form than tablets, especially if you struggle with vomiting during attacks.

If you take acute medications more than 2-3 days a week, you may be at risk of getting a medication overuse headache. In that case, you should talk to your doctor.

In addition to acute medications, many people need to rest in a dark, quiet room during an attack.

Preventive medications

If you have frequent attacks despite good preventive treatment and other measures, you may benefit from prescription migraine medications. Most preventive medications are taken continuously, even when you are not having an attack.

There are many different medications that are effective against migraines.

Your doctor can help you choose which medication is right for you. It is common to try several medications before finding one that works well. If you do not get results with regular medications, you may be able to try a new type of medication called CGRP inhibitors.

Medication Overuse Headache (MOH)

If you take painkillers or acute medication more than 2-3 days a week, the medication may be contributing to even more headaches. A headache diary can be important to map this.

If you think you have MOH, you should talk to your doctor. You can get rid of MOH with the right treatment. The most important thing is to wean yourself off the medication. If you have another underlying headache such as migraine, your MOH must be treated first, in order to find the right treatment for your migraine.

Preventive medications should be taken every day, and do not cause medication overuse headaches.