Over the Counter Medication for Cluster Headaches

According to the Mayo Clinic, cluster headaches are named so because attacks occur in cyclical patterns, or clusters. A variety of over the counter (OTC) medications are available to treat the pain of a cluster headache.

Description

• A typical cluster headache lasts from 30 to 45 minutes, and occurs one to two times per day over a one to four month period. Excruciating pain is felt around the eye and can radiate throughout the head and to the shoulders.

Melatonin

• The Mayo Clinic reports that many people have turned to melatonin because it is available OTC. Decreased levels of melatonin have been found in people who have cluster headaches.

Naproxen

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Naproxen, can be beneficial for cluster headaches lasting longer than 45 minutes. Naproxen works by preventing pain receptors from passing pain messages to the brain.

Supplements

• For cluster headaches that recur, a combination of vitamin B6, magnesium and 5-HTP is recommended. Vitamin B6 helps prevent histamine release, magnesium calms nerve cells and maintains the tone of blood vessels, and 5-HTP increases brain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin.

Warning

• As a side effect, conventional medication can cause headaches or make them worse. Before taking another medication, it is important to rule out other medications as a cause.