Head pain accompanied with a tightness or pressure against the forehead characterizes a tension headache. These symptoms typically lasts for 30 minutes to one week. According to the Mayo Clinic, 90 percent of women and 70 percent of men develop tension headaches during their lives. Sometimes, this headache may be so debilitating that missing work, school or family functions may be necessary. Fortunately, medications can manage tension headaches.
Ketorolac
Ketorolac belongs to a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It decreases substances, such as prostaglandins, that lead to inflammation and pain in the body. Drugs.com says that ketorolac is typically used for less than six days.
Ketorolac's side effects include diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, sweating and ringing in the ears. A headache, drowsiness, black or bloody stools, dark urine, loss of appetite, muscle weakness and a red skin rash are other side effects of ketorolac. Ketorolac can also cause chest pain, trouble breathing, slurred speech and neck stiffness, says Drugs.com.
Alprazolam, lithium, warfarin, carbamezepine, prednisone and muscle relaxers are some of the medications that can interact with ketorolac.
Ketorolac can also affect cause fertility problems, so it shouldn't be used while taking intending to become pregnant.
Almotriptan
Almotriptan is a selective serotonin receptor agonist that reduces throbbing headaches, according to MedlinePlus. It constricts the blood vessels in the brain and prevents the release of substances (serotonin) in the brain that lead to nausea, pain and migraines.
Almotriptan's side effects include headache; dry mouth; stomach problems; trouble breathing; an irregular, fast or pounding heartbeat; problems speaking; bloody diarrhea; and paleness. Almotriptan also causes burning or tingling pain of the hands or feet, weakness of the arm or leg and throat, and chest or neck pain or tightness.
Almotriptan's dose may need to be changed, especially when taking fluconazole, nefazodone, paroxetine, metronidazole or zafirkulast.
Acetaminophen, Aspirin and Caffeine
Acetaminophen, aspirin and caffeine is a combination medication that treats tension headaches. According to Drugs.com, this combination drug can lead to trouble sleeping, heartburn, nervousness, black or bloody stool, hearing problems, nausea, vomiting, swelling, redness, coughing up blood and a fever that can last for more than three days.
Acetaminophen, aspirin and caffeine can also lead to stomach bleeding when combined with alcohol.
