Medication Therapies

Migraines can be a debilitating and chronic condition, but there are many medication therapies available to help manage the pain and reduce the frequency of attacks. From acute treatments like triptans and NSAIDs to preventive treatments like beta-blockers and anti-seizure medications, there are many options to consider based on your individual needs and medical history.

 

Additionally, new therapies like CGRP inhibitors and Botox therapy are emerging as effective treatment options, although they may only be initiated by a qualified neurologist. To learn more about medication therapies for migraines, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider and discuss potential adverse effects, contraindications, and drug interactions.

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Acute treatments:

Medications taken during a migraine attack to relieve symptoms and prevent the progression of the migraine. These medications include triptans (e.g. sumatriptan, rizatriptan, zolmitriptan), NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac), acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol), and opioids (e.g. codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone).

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Preventive treatments:

Medications taken regularly to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. These medications include beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol, timolol, metoprolol), calcium channel blockers (e.g. verapamil, diltiazem, amlodipine), antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline, nortriptyline, venlafaxine), and anti-seizure medications (e.g. topiramate, divalproex, gabapentin). Some of these medications may only be initiated by a qualified neurologist.

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CGRP inhibitors:

A relatively new class of medications that target the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which is believed to play a role in the development of migraines. CGRP inhibitors include erenumab (Aimovig), fremanezumab (Ajovy), and galcanezumab (Emgality). These medications may only be initiated by a qualified neurologist.

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Botox therapy:

A treatment option for chronic migraine sufferers who have not responded well to other forms of therapy. Botox therapy involves multiple injections of botulinum toxin type A (Botox) into specific areas of the head and neck to block the release of certain chemicals involved in pain perception. This therapy is typically administered by a qualified neurologist.

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Other therapies:

Non-medication treatments may be used in conjunction with medication therapies, including biofeedback, relaxation techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

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It's important to note that the specific medication therapy used for migraines may vary depending on the individual patient's medical history and other factors. Before starting any new medication or therapy for migraines, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider and discuss potential adverse effects and contraindications, as well as any potential drug interactions with other medications that the patient may be taking. Some of these therapies, such as CGRP inhibitors and certain preventive treatments, may only be initiated by a qualified neurologist.

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If you suffer from headaches or migraines, it's important to get advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The Headache Clinic is a specialised clinic in North Sydney that focuses on the diagnosis and management of headaches and migraines. We also serve patients all across Australia via telehealth.

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The Headache Clinic has a team of experienced headache-specialist Neurologists who can provide expert guidance on the best treatment options for your individual needs. We understand that headaches and migraines can be really bad and we prioritise urgent appointments for those in need. We offer appointments within 1 week of booking, so you can get the care you need as soon as possible.

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To book an appointment with one of our headache-specialist Neurologists, you can call (02) 9745 9852 or book online through our website. Our clinic is conveniently located in Sydney and offers a comfortable and welcoming environment for patients. Don't let headaches or migraines control your life – contact The Headache Clinic today to start feeling better.

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