A tension headache refers to a type of headache in which a tightness occurs in the scalp and neck muscles. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that signs of a tension headache include a headache at the back of the head that moves forward and can be squeezing in nature, trouble sleeping and difficulty eating. Drugs for tension headaches can offer effective management of symptoms.
Aspirin
Aspirin is a salicylate medication that reduces the mild to moderate pain of a tension headache. Specifically, this medication reduces the prostaglandins in the body that lead to pain, inflammation and fever. Drugs.com indicates that aspirin's less serious side effects include drowsiness, a headache, heartburn and an upset stomach. Its serious side effects include black or bloody stools, ringing in the ears, a fever that lasts for more than 3 days and coughing up blood. Notify a doctor if aspirin's side effects develop.
Indomethacin
Indomethacin, commonly sold as Indocin, is an oral nonsteroidal inflammatory drug that also decreases the amount of prostaglandin that leads to pain and inflammation. Indomethacin also treats gout, arthritis, tendinitis and ankylosing spondylitis. Its less serious side effects include blurry vision, ringing in the ears, a skin rash and itching. Sometimes, it can lead to diarrhea, constipation and heartburn. Indomethacin's serious side effects include chest pain, weakness, bruising, yellowing of the skin or eyes and blistering of the skin. Call a physician if these side effects develop.
Ketoprofen
Ketoprofen, commonly sold as Actron, is also an oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that manages tension headache. Specifically, it reduces pain, inflammation and fever. MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health, says its less serious effects include diarrhea, constipation, ringing in the ears, dizziness, nervousness, trouble sleeping and mouth sores. Some of ketoprofen's serious side effects include a fever, unexplained weight gain, trouble breathing or swallowing, a fast heartbeat and back pain. Talk to a doctor if these side effects develop.
