There are two ways to treat migraines with medicine. One way is stopping a migraine in progress, also known as acute treatment. This approach should be used as soon as the person feels a migraine is coming on. The other type of treatment is used to prevent migraines from starting. For many migraine sufferers, both treatments are used, according to the National Women's Health Information Center.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Some people use aspirin, acetaminophen or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen, to relieve mild migraine pain. Over-the-counter products that might work include Tylenol, Excedrin Migraine, Advil, Motrin, Aleve and Orudis KT. Prescription drugs are the next step if over-the-counter medication does not work.
Triptans
Imitrex, Maxalt, Zomig, Axert, Relpax, Amerge and Frova are examples of triptan tablets, nasal sprays or injections. They help balance the chemicals in the brain, but should not be used by people with heart disease or high blood pressure.
Ergot
Ergotamine tartrate and dihydoergotamine are ergot derivatives that also work to balance chemicals in the brain. But they should not be used by people with heart disease or high blood pressure.
Barbiturate
For severe migraines that will not go away with many prescription medicines, stronger medications that contain barbiturate may be needed. But these narcotic medicines have to be taken carefully to avoid habit-forming tendencies, advises the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Preventive Medicine
Medicine that can help prevent migraines may be helpful for people who have migraines more than twice of month or if the headaches are interfering with work and daily function, the AAFP says. Medications that may help thwart migraine attacks include antidepressants, such as Elavil or Effexor; anticonvulsants, such as Depakote or Topamax; beta-blockers, such as Inderal or Blocadren; and calcium channel blockers like verapamil.
Hormone Therapy
This type of treatment may be good for women whose migraines may be linked to their menstrual cycle. Hormone therapy may help prevent migraines in these cases.
Alternative Medicine
The biofeedback approach to stopping migraines involves learning biofeedback methods, such as monitoring and controlling the body's responses to stress. Acupuncture and relaxation techniques may help relieve stress that may lead to migraines. Other natural remedies include avoiding foods that may cause migraines, getting plenty of sleep and drinking lots of fluids. Staying on a healthy diet and getting regular exercise will also keep your weight down. Obesity may also trigger migraines, the AAFP says.
