What Are Hypnic Headaches?

Treating Hypnic Headaches

High doses of caffeine are often the first option used in treating hypnic headaches. Doctors normally recommend patients take a caffeine supplement shortly before bed, and drinking a strong cup of caffeinated coffee may also help. Patients with hypnic headaches generally tolerate nighttime caffeine very well, and it does not seem to have adverse effects on sleep for the majority of these patients. Compared to other treatment options, caffeine carries the lowest risk of potential side effects. If the patient does not obtain enough relief with caffeine, another frequently used treatment option is lithium carbonate. This drug can be used to stop a hypnic headache that has already developed; however, it should be used with caution in patients with kidney or heart disorders. Some patients have been successfully treated with topiramate, an anti-seizure medicine, and individuals taking this medicine normally need to use it every day to successfully prevent hypnic headaches. Melatonin, flunarizine, and indomethacin may also be beneficial.