Today when people discuss migraine prescription medication usually they are referring to preventative or abortive medications. In years past before these options were available, prescription painkillers were the only option available for migraine sufferers. Prescription painkillers are now most commonly prescribed as a last option for people who need emergency pain relief and those whose conditions are not well controlled by preventative or abortive medications.
Why is this? Prescription pain medications run the risk of being addictive in addition to impairing normal function while in use. Unfortunately, not all patients fully understand the nature of what they are taking when the medication is originally prescribed and many are surprised by the problems they encounter. That much being said, prescription pain killers do have their place in an effective treatment regime as determined by you and your doctor.
The most common categories of migraine prescription medication for pain relief:
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
NSAIDS are most commonly associated with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofin. Prescription NSAIDs come in two varieties – COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors. These medications have the ability to completely block the chemicals the cause inflammation.Common prescription NSAIDs include diclofenac, meloxicam, nabumetone, and celecoxib. Gastrointestinal pain, discomfort, and in extreme cases damage can range from mild to severe with NSAIDs.
Narcotics
Narcotics work by interfering with your body’s ability to feel pain. Narcotics are highly addictive and when being used interfere greatly with one’s ability to go about normal activities. Feelings ranging from dizziness to loss of consciousness are most commonly reported. The consciousness affecting side effects of narcotics makes it impossible for one to drive or work while under the influence. The most common narcotics include oxycodone (similar to morphine), hydrocodone, and propoxyphene. Sometimes narcotic/acetaminophen blends are also prescribed.
Other than the risk of physical addiction and very unpleasant withdrawal side effects, narcotics are also not safe for pregnant or nursing mothers, in combination with alcohol and prescription medications such as anti-depressants, tranquilizers, and sedatives.
Barbiturates
Barbituates are essentially sedatives that work by depressing one’s central nervous system. he most commonly prescribed barbiturates for headaches and migraines are typically a combination of acetaminophen, caffeine, and barbiturates (example – Fioricet.) Like narcotics, barbiturates are also highly addictive, not safe for pregnant or nursing mothers, should not be combined with alcohol or other prescriptions drugs unless approved by your doctor. As many of these medications already contain acetaminophen, it is important not to take more than the recommended amount of medication. When taken in excess acetaminophen can cause liver damage and even death.