Headache Medications - Abortive Medications

Headache medications are obviously used to prevent, soothe, or stop headaches. Those whose purpose is to stop headaches completely are called abortive headache medications.

Triptans are some of the most commonly used migraine drugs. Triptans affect serotonin and include the brand name drugs Amerge, Axert, Frova, Imitrex, Maxalt, Naramig, Relpax, and Zomig. These drugs are specifically used against headache pain and not other conditions. The well known Imitrex is now available in generic form and has been introduced with the anti-inflammatory Naprosyn. This combination is called Treximet. Regular Imitrex is available in an oral form, injectable, and nasal spray. In its injectable form, it is often used for those who have cluster headaches, while as a nasal spray it is great for those who also have nausea when suffering from migraines. Frova is a good bet for menstrual migraines, as it is long acting. Triptans have proven to be very effective abortive headache medications.

The drugs Cafergot, D.H.E. 45 Injection, and Midrin also affect serotonin, but they affect additional brain chemicals. Because of this, they will sometimes work when triptans will not. Ergots, such as Cafergot, are an older class of drug. Though they do sometimes work when nothing else will, they also have more side effects. A newer product, Migranol Nasal Spray is an updated form of Cafergot. With no caffeine and fewer side effects, this fast-acting spray can be an excellent migraine treatment.

Compazine and Phenergan are used to prevent nausea, but they sometimes stop headaches as well. Opiods such as Lortab, Tylenol with Codeine, and Fiorcet are also prescribed for headaches, but these drugs have a major drawback. They are addictive and should only be used in isolated instances. Frequent usage will result in addiction and can actually make headaches worse.

Another new abortive headache medication is Botox for migraines. Small amounts are given as injections that are placed just under the skin by the nerves that are causing the headache. Side effects include irritation and blood at the site of injection. Injections vary by patient but are generally given every two to four months. The new application for this drug has shown promising results, but it is still in the early days of use. Studies are ongoing.

Combinations of drugs are sometimes the strategy that proves most effective for headaches. Migraines that do not respond to triptans sometimes need to be treated with, for example, a drug from the Ergot class. After this treatment, with the headache under control, the patient can sometimes return to taking a Triptan drug with a high level of success. Additionally, combinations within the Triptan or other drug classes are also effective for individual patients.

As with all drugs, headache sufferers should review all options with their doctors. Being armed with the latest information will help the patient and their doctor decide on the best abortive headache medication.

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