Migraine headaches are a severe headache typically categorized by throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. They can be acute or chronic. They occur when a "trigger" stimulates the release of vasoactive neuropeptides, which causes blood vessels in the brain to contract and then dilate. This also produces vasospasms, which reduces blood flow. Platelets then clump together and release serotonin, which causes blood vessels to constrict even more. This triggers the release of prostaglandins and other chemicals that dilate blood vessels and cause inflammation. Migraine headaches can be acute or chronic. They can typically follow four stages. These stages are prodrome, aura, attack, and postdrome. Depending …show more content…
Triptans rizatriptan Maxalt Do not exceed recommended dosage; if no improvement after first dose do not take second dose
Triptans sumatriptan Imitrex Do not exceed recommended dosage; if no improvement after first dose do not take second dose
Triptans naratriptan Amerge Do not exceed recommended dosage; if no improvement after first dose do not take second dose
Triptans zolmitriptan Zomig Do not exceed recommended dosage; if no improvement after first dose do not take second dose
Ergot alkaloids dihydroergotamine mesylate D.H.E., Migranal Do not exceed recommended dosage; do not assemble sprayer until ready to use (Migranal)
Ergot alkaloids ergotamine tartrate Ergomar Do not exceed recommended dosage
Opioid analgesics butorphanol Stadol May cause drowsiness; may impair ability to drive; avoid alcohol; take with food; may be habit forming
Opioid analgesics acetaminophen/caffeine/codeine 30mg Tylenol #3 May cause drowsiness; may impair ability to drive; avoid alcohol; take with food
Opioid analgesics meperidine Demerol May cause drowsiness; may impair ability to drive; avoid alcohol; take with food; may be habit forming
Tricyclic antidepressants amitriptyline Elavil Avoid alcohol; take with food; may cause drowsiness; use care when operating