When we're looking at Migraine and headache information, whether it's from our doctor, a book, or an online article, we sometimes come across medical terms that can be confusing.

Sometimes, it's easy enough to substitute another word or a short phrase for the medical term. At other times, substituting just doesn't convey quite the same meaning or takes more than a few words.

Some of you have expressed an interest in learning more of the medical terminology that comes up when discussing Migraine disease and other headache disorders. So, I'll be posting a "term of the day," probably a couple of times a week. If there are terms you'd like to have defined, please leave a comment to let me know what it is.

Today's term: Contraindication.

Contraindication is a circumstance under which a medication or treatment should not be used or could be harmful.

Some examples:

• Triptans such as Imitrex, Maxalt, Zomig, etc. are contraindicated for people who have had a heart attack.
• Feverfew is contraindicated for women who are or could become pregnant because it can cause miscarriage.

You can read more about contraindications of specific medications in our medication profiles.

Live well,

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© Teri Robert, 2009
Last updated November 20, 2009