A migraine is a vascular headache that causes severe head pain and is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances or light and sound sensitivity. The National Headache Foundation estimates that 29.5 million people in the United States struggle with migraine symptoms. If you have recurrent migraines, there are a number of prescription drugs available to help alleviate painful symptoms associated with this condition.
Dihydroergotamine
Dihydroergotamine is an injectable medication that works by constricting the flow of blood through vessels within the brain. Decreased blood flow to the brain can help alleviate symptoms associated with migraines in patients with this condition. This medication is typically administered as an intramuscular injection into the middle of the thigh muscle but can also be given as an intravenous (IV) or subcutaneous (beneath the skin) injection. Common side effects of dihydroergotamine include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abnormal skin sensations, anxiety and increased sweating. If you develop severe side effects of numbness, muscle pain, leg weakness or chest pain, contact your doctor immediately.
Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan is used to treat symptoms associated with migraine headache and is believed to work by narrowing blood vessels within the brain. This medication also decreases substances within the body that are responsible for triggering nausea, pain and sensitivity to light and sound, explains Drugs.com, an informational peer-reviewed drug product website. Sumatriptan is typically administered as a tablet or spray (nasal) once migraine symptoms develop. Common side effects associated with this medication include sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain and sweating. Use of sumatriptan nasal spray can cause additional side effects, including runny nose, nasal irritation or an unpleasant taste within your mouth.
Rizatriptan
Rizatriptan is a type of migraine medication, which, like sumatriptan, works by narrowing the blood vessels within the brain. This medication is administered orally as a tablet or orally disintegrating tablet following the onset of migraine symptoms. Common rizatriptan side effects include dry mouth; dizziness; drowsiness; nausea; or pain within the throat, neck or jaw.
Zolmitriptan
Zolmitriptan is a type of migraine medication that is believed to narrow blood vessels within the brain, similar to the drug mechanisms utilized by sumatriptan and rizatriptan. This medication is available as a table or an orally disintegrating tablet and should be taken after migraine symptoms arise. Common side effects associated with zolmitriptan use include upset stomach, pain within the throat or neck, drowsiness, dry mouth, weakness or a feeling of warmth.
