{"id":827,"date":"2023-03-22T06:35:09","date_gmt":"2023-03-22T06:35:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/?p=827"},"modified":"2023-03-27T06:35:34","modified_gmt":"2023-03-27T06:35:34","slug":"reference-guide-to-headache-medications","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/headache-medications\/reference-guide-to-headache-medications\/","title":{"rendered":"Reference Guide to Headache Medications"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b>Highlights<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Most headaches can be treated with over-the-counter medication, but some do need prescription medicines.<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Over-the-counter headache medications often work well for common headaches.<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>The majority of prescription medications are targeted towards treating migraine and cluster headache types.<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>A new headache should be checked by a doctor to ensure it\u2019s not a symptom of a more serious condition.<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Find the lowest price on headache medications with the help of BidRx.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headaches are one of the most common ailments, whether as symptoms of a condition, caused by treatment, or a condition in their own right. There are multiple options to treat headaches, and finding the right one can make a real difference in quality of life.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>About Headache Medication<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache treatment depends heavily on the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/headache-medications\/what-are-headaches-types-prevention-and-treatment\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">type of headache<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, what triggers it, and why. For most headaches, finding the trigger and managing it with over-the-counter medication is the most common treatment plan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For some types of headache, however, particularly migraine, prescription medication can be a front-line treatment to both manage and prevent headaches. If you experience a new form of headache with no clear explanation, see a doctor to get examined and ensure the headache isn\u2019t a symptom of a larger problem.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are the most common medications recommended for treating headaches.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-836\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/2.jpeg-80.jpg\" alt=\"Woman holding her head\" width=\"512\" height=\"342\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually shortened as NSAIDs, mitigate pain signals and are among the most commonly available headache medications. NSAIDs are often combined with other medications and chemicals, including other NSAIDs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NSAIDs are generally used to reduce symptoms of manageable pain. Some NSAIDs, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=Other%20Conditions&amp;drugName=NAPROXEN\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">naproxen<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, are available in both consumer and prescription strength, or may be included in a prescription drug. If you\u2019re prescribed a stronger version, review possible outcomes with your doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 NSAIDs<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NSAIDs should be used with caution if you have:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A gastrointestinal condition<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A history of cerebrovascular events (strokes or mini-strokes)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney disease<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Side Effects \u2014 NSAIDs<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NSAID side effects are often gastrointestinal and include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea and\/or vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gastric bleeding or ulcers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indigestion<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Drug Interactions \u2014 NSAIDs<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NSAIDs should not be taken with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diuretics<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blood thinners<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihypertensives<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antibiotics<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With over-the-counter medication in particular, following dosage and timing rules is particularly important. Read the label carefully and follow all instructions for use.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s recommended to avoid alcohol when regularly taking NSAIDs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Opioids<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-835\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/3.jpeg-76.jpg\" alt=\"Woman with a headache\" width=\"512\" height=\"341\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of humankind\u2019s earliest pain treatments, opioids block pain signals directly by binding to specific receptors. As opioids can be habit-forming, they are rarely used for ongoing headache management, although for people with severe headaches, they may be prescribed a few doses to be used as needed. Opioids are not recommended for migraine, as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jama\/fullarticle\/2781052\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">evidence is increasingly showing that they are ineffective<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 Opioids<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opioids should not be used by people with a previous history of addiction without a doctor\u2019s supervision. Older adults using opioids may be at greater fall risk due to drowsiness. Learn the signs of habituation and the psychological aspects of addiction before using opioids.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you find your headaches, even minor ones, are becoming more frequent or more intense, discontinue opioid use completely and contact your doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Side Effects \u2014 Opioids<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opioids can cause:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea and\/or vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Itching<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drowsiness<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opioids as a class can become less effective when used frequently, requiring either an increase in dosage or weaning off the medication.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Drug Interactions \u2014 Opioids<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opioids should not be taken with other depressant drugs, including alcohol, and should only be taken in combination with immunosuppressive drugs under a doctor\u2019s orders.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Triptans<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-834\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/4.jpeg-37.jpg\" alt=\"Woman holding her head\" width=\"512\" height=\"341\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Primarily used for migraine and cluster headaches, triptans were first put on the market in the 1990s. They work by stimulating serotonin receptors in the blood vessels and nerve endings of the brain. Triptans are primarily used when over-the-counter medication is ineffective, and include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=Other%20Conditions&amp;drugName=SUMATRIPTAN\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sumatriptan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Imitrex\/Sumavel)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/eletriptan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eletriptan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Relpax)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=Other%20Conditions&amp;drugName=RIZATRIPTAN\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rizatriptan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Maxalt)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/zolmitriptan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zolmitriptan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Zomig)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/frovatriptan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frovatriptan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Frova)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/almotriptan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Almotriptan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Axert)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/naratriptan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Naratriptan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Amerge)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 Triptans<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have a heart condition, don\u2019t take triptans. Triptans are generally contraindicated for people who are pregnant.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Side Effects \u2014 Triptans<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Triptans generally have few side effects when they\u2019re used at the correct dosage and taken as prescribed. The most common side effect was a recurrence of migraine, which is rare.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Drug Interactions \u2014 Triptans<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs that also affect serotonin, including <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=Depression\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antidepressants<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, shouldn\u2019t be taken with triptans. They also shouldn\u2019t be taken with ergot alkaloids, as this raises the risk of coronary spasm.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Ergot Alkaloids<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-833\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/5.jpeg-9.jpg\" alt=\"Man holding his head\" width=\"512\" height=\"321\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Derived from the ergot fungus, ergot alkaloids were the most common treatment for migraine and cluster headaches before the triptan class was put on the market. While their primary usage has shifted to other sectors of medicine, they may still be used to treat migraine if triptans are ineffective or not recommended.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common ones on the market are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/ergotamine.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ergotamine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Ergomar) and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/dihydroergotamine-injection.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dihydroergotamine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Migranal\/Migergot)<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 Ergot Alkaloids<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid ergot alkaloids if you have:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any circulatory condition, such as Reynaud\u2019s disease<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re treating HIV, check your medication regimen carefully with your doctor before taking any ergot-based drugs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Side Effects \u2014 Ergot Alkaloids<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common side effect of ergot alkaloids is nausea and\/or vomiting. With higher doses or overdose, ergot alkaloids can have serious effects on the heart and circulatory system. A sudden increase in blood pressure is a particular risk. If prescribed, only take them at the dosage and timing as prescribed.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Drug Interactions \u2014 Ergot Alkaloids<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ergot alkaloids should not be taken with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Macrolide antibiotics<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Triptans<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antifungal medication<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Protease inhibitors<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Antihypertensives<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-832\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/6.jpeg-7.jpg\" alt=\"Woman with a headache holding her head\" width=\"512\" height=\"342\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Commonly used to treat high blood pressure, some antihypertensives also have shown strong evidence of reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Precisely why remains a matter of study, and many doctors tend to take a \u201ctwo birds with one stone\u201d approach when patients have both conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common classes of antihypertensives used for migraine include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beta blockers<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=METOPROLOL%20SUCCINATE\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Lopressor)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=Other%20Conditions&amp;drugName=NEBIVOLOL%20HCL\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nebivolol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Bystolic)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=PROPRANOLOL%20HCL\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Propranolol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Inderal LA, Inderal XL, or InnoPran XL)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=TIMOLOL%20MALEATE\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Timolol<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Calcium channel blockers<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=NIFEDIPINE\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nifedipine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Procardia)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=VERAPAMIL%20ER\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Verapamil<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Calan)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=DILTIAZEM%20HCL\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diltiazem<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Cardizem)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Angiotensin receptor blockers<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/candesartan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Candesartan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Atcand)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=TELMISARTAN-AMLODIPINE\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Telmisartan<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 Antihypertensives<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have any of the following, only take antihypertensives on doctor\u2019s recommendation:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart disease not being treated with antihypertensives<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who are pregnant or could become pregnant shouldn\u2019t take antihypertensives.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Side Effects \u2014 Antihypertensives<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you take antihypertensives, you may experience:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Back pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-migraine headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They also may interfere with kidney testing and may raise potassium levels in the body.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Drug Interactions \u2014 Antihypertensives<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You should not use antihypertensives if you also take:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vasodilators<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diuretics<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other heart or blood pressure medications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lithium<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NSAIDs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Anticonvulsants<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-831\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/7.jpeg-5.jpg\" alt=\"man with a headache\" width=\"512\" height=\"341\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also called anti-seizure medication, the primary use of anticonvulsants is to help manage seizures and convulsions caused by unusual electrical activity in the brain. However, two medications in particular, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/divalproex-sodium.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">divalproex sodium<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Depakote) and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/topiramate.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">topiramate<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Topamax), have been shown to be useful as preventative measures for migraine.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 Anticonvulsants<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not take any anticonvulsant if you have liver disease or any pancreatic condition. If you\u2019re pregnant or might become pregnant, don\u2019t use anticonvulsants unless a doctor has cleared you to do so. Divalproex sodium should not be used to prevent migraines while pregnant.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have thoughts of suicide or are experiencing sudden changes in mood, contact your doctor right away. If you\u2019ve ever had a mood disorder, tell your doctor before starting an anticonvulsant.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Topiramate may increase body temperature while reducing sweating, leading to a higher risk of dehydration. Report any vision issues you might experience immediately when using topiramate.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When using divalproex sodium, seek help if you experience the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Appetite<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upper stomach pain that may spread to your back<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent nausea or vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Darkening of the urine<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Facial swelling<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jaundice\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are signs of liver or pancreatic damage that will need to be treated immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Side Effects \u2014 Anticonvulsants<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Possible side effects you may find when taking anticonvulsants include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gastrointestinal issues, including:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain in the stomach\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Back pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drowsiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle weakness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tremors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Memory issues<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sudden changes in mood\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insomnia<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Easier bruising or bleeding<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cold and flu-like symptoms, such as:\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fever<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Runny nose<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sore throat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coughing or other breathing problems<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trouble walking and with coordination<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swelling in the extremities<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tingling or numbness in the extremities<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision problems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tinnitus<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skin rash<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hair loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weight gain or weight loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Changes to the sense of taste<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nervousness<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Drug Interactions \u2014 Anticonvulsants<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask your doctor before taking any of the following while using anticonvulsants:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opioids<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleep medication\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle relaxers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antidepressants<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not combine anticonvulsants.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Tricyclic Antidepressants<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-830\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/8.jpeg-2.jpg\" alt=\"Man holding his head\" width=\"512\" height=\"341\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While tricyclic antidepressants have largely been replaced for mental health treatments, they\u2019ve shown efficacy as preventative medication for both migraines and tension headaches. Modern antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have not shown similar effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/amitriptyline-25-mg-tablet\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Amitriptyline<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has performed the best in studies on migraine prevention and is generally the first drug used. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/nortriptyline-10-mg-5-ml-sol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nortriptyline<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can be used instead if amitriptyline is contraindicated.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications \u2014 Tricyclic Antidepressants<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tricyclic antidepressants can have cardiac and neurological effects that can be potentially fatal in the case of overdose. Only use tricyclic antidepressants as prescribed and do not attempt to \u201ccatch up\u201d if you miss a dose.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not take tricyclic antidepressants without a doctor\u2019s permission if you\u2019ve experienced any of the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart disease or a cardiac event<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diabetes, especially if prescribed amitriptyline<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Glaucoma or other vision issues<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty urinating<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any history of mental illness, particularly schizophrenia or bipolar disorder<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Side Effects \u2014 Tricyclic Antidepressants<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common side effects of tricyclic antidepressants include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gastrointestinal symptoms, including:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation or diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain in the mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Changes to sense of taste<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Black tongue<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Changes in weight<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Appetite changes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Less-frequent urination<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rash or itching<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swelling of the breasts regardless of gender<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blurred vision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tingling and numbness in hands and feet<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loss of libido, including difficulty having an orgasm and erectile dysfunction<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Drug Interactions \u2014 Tricyclic Antidepressants<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not take any tricyclic antidepressant if you\u2019ve used an SSRI in the last five weeks or an MAO inhibitor in the last 14 days.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check with your doctor before taking tricyclics if you take any of these medications:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any other class of antidepressant<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anti-anxiety or mood disorder medication<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD medication or other stimulants<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any cold or allergy medication, prescription or over-the-counter<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamines<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parkinson\u2019s disease treatments<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gastrointestinal medication<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overactive bladder medication<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bronchodilators, including asthma medication<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Get the Lowest Price for Headache Medications with BidRx<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Controlling your headache shouldn\u2019t mean a tighter budget. BidRx helps you cut down on medication prices by having pharmacies bid on your prescription. Just pick the bid that works best for you and have the medication shipped to your door, or pick it up locally, depending on the offer you choose.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/Contents\/medication\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">our medication page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to get started on getting the lowest price for your headache medication with BidRx.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Highlights Most headaches can be treated with over-the-counter medication, but some do need prescription medicines.&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":829,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-827","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-headache-medications"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/827","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=827"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/827\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1278,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/827\/revisions\/1278"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/829"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=827"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=827"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=827"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}