How to Use Prednisone for Migraine Headaches

A migraine headache can stop you in your tracks as pain and light sensitivity send you crawling under the covers seeking relief in a dark, quiet room. While the corticosteroid prednisone may not be suitable for a single migraine, it can be an effective treatment for an extended migraine. Always talk to your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment program.

Instructions

How to Use Prednisone for Migraine Headaches

• 1

  Determine what type of migraine you have. An intractable migraine lasts for more than three days and puts you at risk of aneurysms. A migraine that lasts for less time often can be treated with medications such as over-the-counter pain relievers or prescriptive triptans and ergots.

• 2

  Talk to your doctor about a prednisone prescription to relieve migraine symptoms. Your doctor will be cautious about prescribing this drug if you are at risk for osteoporosis or have diabetes, as prednisone increases blood sugar.

• 3

  Fill your prescription and take as directed. Prednisone often is administered as a "dose pack" to treat intractable migraine and prevent an early return of symptoms. The pack begins with higher doses, then tapers down each day over the course of a week.

• 4

  Contact your doctor if you miss a dose to find out how to handle the situation. Never double up on doses.

• 5

  Take prednisone with food to prevent stomach irritation. Your doctor may prescribe one dose daily, which is best taken with breakfast before 9 a.m. If your doctor has you on a different schedule, mark your calendar so you remember when to take the medication and set an alarm to tell you when to take your daily dose.

• 6

  Talk to your doctor about dietary considerations. You may want to take a calcium and potassium supplement while on prednisone to help maintain bone strength and density. High sodium intake as well as grapefruit or grapefruit juice may reduce the effectiveness of your prednisone treatments.

• 7

  Take your medication until the dose pack is stopped or until otherwise indicated by your doctor. Do not stop prednisone immediately, but instead taper off the dosage.