Sunday, February, 12, 2012

Classic migraine

Table of Contents

  • Beta-blockers such as propanolol
  • Anti-depressants such as amitriptyline
  • Anti-convulsants such as valproic acid and topiramate
  • Calcium-channel blockers such as verapamil
  • Serotonin re-uptake inhibitors such as venlafaxine

STOPPING AN ATTACK

Other medications are taken when there is the first sign of an impending migraine attack. In the case of migraine with aura, this is typically when the visual disturbances are first noted. These medications can effectively stop the migraine in its tracks, preventing the progression to other migraine symptoms or reducing the severity of the attack.

Many of these medications cause constriction of blood vessels and cannot be given to patients at risk of heart attack or other conditions. These medications include:

  • Ergots such as DHE-45
  • Serotonin agonists / triptans such as sumatriptan
  • Isometheptene

These medications come in various preparations to enable administration via different routes. For example, patients who have vomiting and cannot keep pills down may benefit from a nasal spray or injection.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are taking an ergotamine-containing medication and you are likely to become pregnant. Such medications can have serious side effects to an unborn baby.

TREATING SYMPTOMS

Other medications are primarily given to treat the symptoms of migraine. Used alone or in combinations, these drugs can minimize pain, nausea, or emotional distress caused by the migraine. Some of these medications may also have some effect on the underlying process in addition to providing symptomatic relief. Medications in this group include:

  • Anti-emetics such as prochlorperazine
  • Sedatives such as butalbital
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Narcotic pain relievers such as meperidine

Support Groups

For additional resources, see migraine support group.


Expectations (prognosis)

Migraine headaches usually do not represent a significant threat to your health. However, in rare circumstances, people with migraine may be at risk of serious complications. A severe migraine may result in a stroke, possibly due to prolonged constriction of blood vessels. Some people may have side effects of medications. A physician should choose the appropriate medications based on symptoms and other conditions.

Images

Brain

Review Date: 11/21/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)