How are drugs used to treat migraine?

The aim of drug treatment for migraine is firstly to treat acute attacks and secondly to provide migraine prophylaxis (measures to prevent further attacks).

Active substances from the class known as triptans (serotonin receptor antagonists), e.g. sumatriptan, are recommended against a migraine attack. These active substances help to eliminate not only the headaches but also, in most cases, concomitant symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. For patients with mild to moderate migraine, traditional analgesics (e.g. acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, diclofenac, etc.) are recommended.

In addition to acute treatment of migraine attacks, some patients need medication for prophylaxis. Taking a substance regularly can at best completely prevent acute migraine attacks or at least reduce their frequency and severity. Active substances used for migraine prophylaxis include the beta-blockers metoprolol and propranolol, the calcium channel blocker flunarizine and the anticonvulsant topiramate.

The form of drug treatment indicated in an individual case should always be discussed in detail with a neurologist or another doctor with experience of treating migraine.