Headaches, including migraines, are common.
All NSAIDs can cause stomach upset and may increase the risk of bleeding.
Consult your provider before taking this medication if you have kidney or heart disease or a history ofstomach bleeding.
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Different NSAIDs have various dosing.
Be sure to follow the dosing instructions on the label.
Naproxen:More commonly known as Aleve, it takes longer to begin working in the body than ibuprofen.
However, it has a longer half-life, so it stays in the body longer.
Aspirin may also cause asevere allergic reaction, which manifests as facial swelling and breathing difficulties.
Sometimes, individuals take a low dose of aspirin daily for other health needs.
You should not take aspirin in combination with other NSAIDs unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to.
Acetaminophen products should never be mixed with alcohol.
If you have liver disease, check with your practitioner or healthcare professional before taking acetaminophen.
Maximum daily dosing may vary based on an individual’s health status and other medications they take.
A common combination medication isExcedrinand its generic counterparts.
There are several formulations of combination OTC medications for migraines.
The combinations vary depending on whether they are daytime or nighttime formulations.
Each formulation contains a combination of acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine ordiphenhydramine citrate.
Caffeine induces vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels).
However, caffeine can also keep you awake.
So, to help you sleep, nighttime formulations skip the caffeine and include diphenhydramine citrate instead.
This is an antihistamine that can make you sleepy.
Excedrin is a very effective headache and migraine medication, but any of the components can cause side effects.
Common side effects include stomach upset, nervousness, and dizziness.
As mentioned, too much acetaminophen, which is commonly found in combination products, can cause liver damage.
You also shouldn’t take several NSAIDs together as this could increase the risk of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Reye’s syndrome is a serious condition that affects the brain and liver.
Speak with your healthcare provider before taking any medications while pregnant.
To prevent migraines, many individuals take supplements.
Managing stress through therapy options, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is also helpful.
Acupuncture may also be beneficial in migraine prevention.
Migraine headbands:These headbands work by applying pressure at various points on the head.
Several different options are available.
Cefaly is FDA-approved and available without a prescription.
Aromatherapy:Some individuals believe various essential oils, such aslavenderand peppermint oil, can relieve migraines.
CBD and medical marijuana:CBD-containing products andmedical marijuanamay be effective migraine treatments.
However, additional high-quality studies are necessary to study these products and their effect on migraines.
These supplements may reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT):CBT is one therapy option that can help reduce stress.
Stress is often identified as the most common trigger for migraines.
CBT is an effective stress management tool.
Reach out to your insurance carrier for additional information and coverage.
Prescription Medications
Sometimes, OTC medications and treatments aren’t enough to treat and manage migraines.
The main OTC medications for migraines include acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and combination medications.
Other OTC treatments are available.
Additional prescription pain relief medications can provide further pain relief.
What works best and fastest for you may not be the best option for someone else.
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