Migraine is a common complaint affecting thousands of Americans, especially women. It presents as severe headache coupled with nausea and discomfort. The sufferer is quite unable to do any useful activity during a bout of migraine. Episodes come unannounced and for no apparent reason. Pain could subside on its own or by taking migraine medicine. Thus, it is not possible to predict onset of migraine and hence, migraine episodes interfere with his or her routine activities. Hence, those who suffer migraine usually follow certain remedies that include medication as well.



The exact cause or origin of migraine is not yet clear. Therefore, treatment strategies focus on relieving symptoms as and when they arise. Relief from migraine depends on the severity and duration of attack. For moderate intensity and short duration, one could rest lying down preferably in a dark room. If lucky to get sleep, the pain would pass on waking up. This is not however an ideal solution for it could eat away time from other tasks lined up. Hence, patients turn to migraine medicine.

There are three types of medicine that are effective in relieving migraine pain. The first group includes pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs. Examples are acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen. Acetaminophen is a popular over-the-counter drug that is suitable for mild attacks of migraine. For frequent moderate to intense episodes, you could use a combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen after consulting your doctor. Although these are safe, non-steroidal drugs, it is better to check for adverse effects in long-term use of migraine medicine. Always use according to directions on the package. A possible home remedy is to drink black coffee after taking the pill.

The other categories of drugs used as migraine medicine are triptans and prophylactics. Both are prescription medication and adequate medical supervision is necessary while taking them. Your doctor would suggest them in the case of severe attacks depending on the timing of seeking advice.

Triptan that is available commercially as Imitrex can reduce or eliminate symptoms when you know a headache is imminent. If you delay, oral medication may not work because of the changes resulting from progression of the migraine.

Prophylactic migraine medicine includes beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and anti-depressants. These work best as preventive drugs and are used on a daily basis as maintenance treatment. Appropriate medical evaluation is necessary and doctors prescribe them for those who have frequent attacks or are prone to injure themselves in migraine episodes.