Migraine medications are a mainstay for those suffering with the debilitating symptoms these headaches invoke. Treatments options vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the headache and the accompanying symptoms. For some individuals, over-the-counter treatments are sufficient to ease the pain, but others require a more potent drug. Side effects may be present with all of these drugs, however.
Side Effects of Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications for migraine headaches include aspirin, ibuprofen and other over-the-counter medications targeted for migraine sufferers (such as Excedrin Migraine and other formulations with caffeine included). These medications may be safe in moderate doses, but if taken too frequently, can cause ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding and rebound headaches, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Side Effects of Pain Medications
Prescription pain medications are a fast fix for some migraine sufferers, helping to ease the chronic throbbing pain of a migraine. Butalbital medications contain sedatives for relaxation and pain-relieving drugs to combat severe headaches. According to the Mayo Clinic, these drugs have a high risk of rebound headaches and may cause withdrawal symptoms. Other pain-relieving drugs such as opiates contain narcotics, which may be habit-forming.
Side Effects of Triptans
Triptans are among the most commonly used medications for chronic migraine headaches, offering relief for the pain and associating migraine symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. These medications are taken at the first sign of pain, working quickly on irritated blood vessels in the brain. These drugs are not safe for all sufferers, as they pose risks for those with heart conditions and those with a high risk of stroke. Possible side effects include dizziness, muscle weakness and nausea, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition, frequent use of triptan medications may cause rebound headaches.
Side Effects of Preventative Medications
Nearly half of those with migraines could find relief with preventative medications; though only 1 in 10 use them, according to the Mayo Clinic. Anti-seizure medications, such as those used to treat epilepsy, are also a form of preventative therapy for migraine sufferers, reducing the occurrence and severity of headaches in some sufferers. Side effects of topirimate include metabolic acidosis, a potentially severe condition causing rapid heartbeat, confusion, fatigue, lethargy and loss of appetite.
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