Helpful Options For Treating Migraines

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.

Keep reading to get familiar with more treatments for migraines.