Both over-the-counter and prescription-level non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available to treat migraine headaches. OTC medications such as Aleve and Advil are NSAIDs that can relieve mild migraines. There are other NSAIDs that also can help with more severe pain.
Aleve
Aleve is one of the brand names of naproxen sodium. Other brand names include Naprosyn, Anaprox, Naprelan and Aflaxen. It also is available under its generic name. Side effects from naproxen sodium include belching, headaches, itching, wheezing, constipation, indigestion, abdominal pain, anxiety, nausea, skin paleness, leg pain, back pain, confusion or coma.
Advil
Ibuprofen also is an NSAID sold under such names as Advil, Midol, Motrin, Nuprin, Genpril, Haltran, Bufen, Proprinal and Q-Profen, among others. Ibuprofen has strength levels of both OTC and prescription-level. It is available as a pill, chewable pill, capsule or suspension. Side effects from ibuprofen may include a noise in the ears or hearing loss, insomnia, drowsiness, crying, euphoria or dysphoria, depersonalization, paranoia, hallucinations, disorientation, dizziness, cramps, unusual vomiting or mood changes.
Cataflam
Diclofenac, sold as Cataflam, Zipsor, Cambia, Voltaren and Voltaren-XR, is a prescription-level NSAID available as a pill, capsule, powder and delayed-release pill. Diclofenac's side effects may include loss of hearing, weakness, noises in the ears, wheezing, hostility, irritability, insomnia, seizures, difficulty breathing, hives, agitation, blurry vision, skin paleness, a rash, abdominal pain, unusual bleeding and diarrhea.
Treximet
Treximet is a combination of naproxen and sumatriptan designed to treat migraines, especially of the severe kind. It is a prescription-level medication available as a pill. Side effects may include a crawling sensation, tingling, chest pain, unusual heartbeat, neck pain, jaw pain, throat pain, belching, dizziness, indigestion, nausea, drowsiness and tightness in the muscles.
Toradol
Ketorolac, sold as Toradol and Toradol IV/IM, is a prescription NSAID medication. It is available as a pill or a solution or may be taken intravenously. Ketorolac may produce side effects, including vomiting, constipation, bloating, nausea, drowsiness, yellow skin, yellow eyes, indigestion, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramps, nosebleeds, mood changes, loss of appetite, fever, hallucinations, high blood pressure, ulcers in the mouth, swelling, convulsions, fainting, chest pains and vomiting blood.
