Helpful Options For Treating Migraines

Anti-Nausea Medication

Nausea is one of the most common symptoms patients experience during a migraine, and it may also be a side effect of the medication they take for their symptoms. Peppermint and ginger can be used in teas and may be useful for mild migraines. Medications used to combat nausea usually include metoclopramide, promethazine, ondansetron, and domperidone, which can be taken orally or as an injection. Possible side effects of anti-nausea medications generally include fatigue, insomnia, confusion, and feeling restless. Often, medication to reduce nausea is given at the same time as medication to prevent or reduce vomiting. These drugs, known as anti-emetics, include dimenhydrinate, meclizine, and promethazine and are often available in suppository or other non-oral formats. Depending on the type of anti-emetic drug used, side effects can include dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, fatigue, and heartburn.

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Preventative Medication

Preventative medication can help reduce both the severity of symptoms and the number of migraines an individual experiences. They are also beneficial in shortening the length of any migraines that do occur. Doctors generally offer patients preventative medication if they have at least four migraines per month or if their migraines last more than twelve hours. These medications are also offered to patients for whom pain relievers are ineffective and those who experience tingling, weakness, or extended auras with their migraines.

Some of the most commonly recommended medications for migraine prevention include tricyclic antidepressants, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, Onabotulinumtoxin A (Botox), and anti-epileptic medications. Certain patients will need to take these medications daily to manage their symptoms, though other migraine patients may be advised by their doctor to take the medicines only when they are experiencing a trigger. Some of these medications, particularly anti-epileptic medicines and antidepressants, have the potential for serious side effects and require close monitoring from a doctor. In some cases, blood tests may be necessary while taking these medicines. Certain medications are unsafe for use during pregnancy. After a period of taking these medicines, doctors may want patients to try to taper off of them and see if their migraines return.

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