How to Buy OTC Migraine Medicines

There are a vast number of migraine over the counter medications stocking the shelves, making it confusing and tiresome to choose. However, with so many choices available and conveniently located, migraine sufferers increasingly prefer medicines to prescription drugs. They are generally less expensive, involve less hassle than dealing with health insurance guidelines and are available night and day thanks to 24-hour convenience stores and discount department stores.

Instructions

• 1

  Consult with a doctor about symptoms and migraine treatments that are right for you. Ask him to recommend a medicine that will best treat your migraines and explain how often and how much to use for the most benefit.

• 2

  Choose a medicine with the fewest side effects. Long-term use of NSAIDs is hard on the stomach and some people don't tolerate caffeine. Read the label on migraine medicine before taking any and be aware of any ingredients that you are allergic to or didn't tolerate well in the past.

• 3

  Check for possible drug interactions. Be sure the prescription medications that you currently take are safe when combined with the ingredients in over the counter medications. When in doubt, ask a doctor or pharmacist to assist you.

• 4

  Compare ingredients and prices. Many products contain the exact same ingredients, but prices vary from brand to brand. Store brand and generic products save money while still being as effective as name brands.

• 5

  Ask the pharmacist for help. She can answer any questions that you have while directing you to specific medications and offering recommendations of products that work the best.