Acute Treatments

These treatments are taken during a migraine attack to relieve symptoms.

1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Pain Relievers:

   • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
   • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
   • Aspirin
   • Combination medications (e.g., Excedrin Migraine, which contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine)

2. Prescription Medications:

   • Triptans: Sumatriptan (Imitrex), rizatriptan (Maxalt), zolmitriptan (Zomig), etc.
   • Ergots: Ergotamine (Ergomar), dihydroergotamine (Migranal)
   • Lasmiditan: A newer class of medication (Reyvow)
   • CGRP (Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide) Receptor Antagonists: Ubrogepant (Ubrelvy), rimegepant (Nurtec ODT)
   • Anti-nausea medications: Metoclopramide (Reglan), prochlorperazine (Compazine), ondansetron (Zofran)

Preventive Treatments

These are taken regularly to reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of migraines.

1. Medications:

   • Beta-blockers: Propranolol (Inderal), metoprolol (Lopressor)
   • Antidepressants: Amitriptyline, nortriptyline, venlafaxine (Effexor)
   • Anti-seizure medications: Topiramate (Topamax), valproate (Depakote)
   • CGRP inhibitors: Erenumab (Aimovig), fremanezumab (Ajovy), galcanezumab (Emgality)

2. Botox Injections:

   • Approved for chronic migraines, Botox injections can reduce the number of headache days.

3. Lifestyle and Behavioral Therapies:

   • Stress management: Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation exercises, and biofeedback.
   • Regular sleep patterns: Ensuring consistent and adequate sleep.
   • Dietary changes: Identifying and avoiding food triggers (e.g., aged cheeses, alcohol, caffeine).
   • Hydration: Staying well-hydrated.
   • Regular exercise: Maintaining a regular exercise routine.

4. Alternative Therapies:

   • Acupuncture: Some people find relief with acupuncture.
   • Herbal supplements: Butterbur and feverfew have been studied for migraine prevention, but consult with a healthcare provider before use.