What is the best medication for migraine?
There is no easy answer to this question. Migraine medications are very individual. One person might respond very well to a particular drug, yet the same drug might have no impact at all for another person. So the best drug is really the one that works for you. Up to a third of people with migraine can satisfactorily manage migraine with over-the-counter treatments such as paracetamol, codeine, ibuprofen or aspirin. Some people find that these work better if taken with an anti-nausea drug. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also used as a first line therapy. These may be particularly useful for those who get their attacks at around the time of their menstrual cycle. In recent years, Triptans have become the first-line medications of choice in Ireland. Statistically these medications (Sumatriptan, Almotriptan, Frovatriptan and Zolmitriptan) work in 60-80% of cases.What drugs can be taken during pregnancy?
For most women, migraine improves during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. However, if attacks persist, only in extremely rare cases will a doctor consider medication. The only drug considered safe throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding is paracetamol*. Before taking even paracetamol during pregnancy, you should first consult your doctor. Medication of any type may be harmful to the developing foetus, especially in the first 3 months so usage should be discontinued as soon as you discover that you are pregnant.Note: Please remember that no drug can be considered completely without risk during pregnancy.
