Migraine without aura

Alternative Names

Treatment

There is no cure for migraine. The goal is to control the symptoms and prevent further attacks.

Rest in a quiet, darkened room. This will often reduce the severity of the symptoms. Drink fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if vomiting occurs.

Several medications may help relieve symptoms. However, the effectiveness of migraine medications is highly variable in different people. If a medication has been effective in relieving a previous migraine, it may be tried before others.

Over-the-counter medicines may help reduce pain if they are taken early in the headache. If these are ineffective, talk to your doctor about other options.

Ergotamine tartrate preparations constrict the arteries of the head and may be used alone or in combination with other drugs such as caffeine (Cafergot), phenobarbital, or Fioricet.

Propoxyphene or other medications that relieve pain or inflammation may provide relief for some people. Nausea should be treated early with Reglan, Compazine, or other anti-emetics.

Some medicines can prevent migraines. These include propranolol, amitriptyline, ergonovine, cyproheptadine, clonidine, methysergide, calcium channel antagonists, valproic acid, carbamazepine, topiramate (Topamax), and many others.

Several medications may need to be tried before you find one that works. A class of drugs known as triptans can relieve a migraine once it starts. Various triptans can be injected, taken as a pill, or dissolved under the tongue.

Support Groups

For other organizations that provide information about migraine, see migraine resources.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Common migraine does not indicate a life-threatening disorder. It usually is painful and annoying at the time it occurs. It may be chronic and recurrent, which can interfere with a person's lifestyle.

Rarely, severe migraine may result in a stroke, possibly due to prolonged constriction of blood vessels. Some people may have side effects of medications. A physician should choose the appropriate medications based on symptoms and other conditions.

Possible Complications

• Frequent, recurrent attacks may interfere with lifestyle
• Side effects of medications
• Permanent neurologic impairments including stroke (rare)

When to Contact a Medical Professional

See your health care provider if symptoms of migraine are severe, persistent, or recurrent. Call if any other new symptoms develop or there is a change in the severity or pattern of symptoms.

Call your health care provider if previously effective treatments no longer are helpful, or if symptoms indicating side effects of medications occur, including irregular heartbeat, pale or blue skin color, extreme sleepiness or sedation, persistent cough, depression, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain or cramps, dry mouth, extreme thirst, or others.

Also, call if you are taking an ergotamine-containing medication, and you are likely to become pregnant (these medications should not be taken when pregnant).