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List of Migraine Medicines

Migraines are headaches that recur and are characterized by throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. There is often a triggering factor or strong family history. Migraines are more prevalent in females, with females being almost twice as likely to experience migraines than males by their late teens. Some migraines are preceded by an aura, which is a sensation of warmth or light. Migraine headaches can be very debilitating and include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, swelling, irritability and sweating. Not all migraine sufferers seek treatment. Those who do often find relief in prescribed medications.

  1. Amitriptyline

    • Amitriptyline, which is sold as Amitriptyline HCL, is a tricyclic antidepressant prescribed for major depression. It is sometimes prescribed for the treatment of migraine headaches. Some common potential side effects are drowsiness, dizziness, orthostatic hypotension, dry mouth, constipation, blurry vision and urinary retention.

    Atenolol

    • The brand name for the prescription drug atenolol is Tenormin. Atenolol is an antihypertensive and antianginal medication prescribed for hypertension and myocardial infarction. It is sometimes prescribed for migraines. Nausea, diarrhea, cold arms and legs, dizziness, mental changes, fatigue and insomnia are some common side effects.

    Fluoxetine

    • Fluoxetine, sold as Prozac, Prozac Weekly or Sarafem, is a selective seratonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. It is often prescribed for major depression and anxiety disorders. Sometimes it is prescribed for migraines. Some common side effects of Prozac use are headaches, anxiety, tremor, insomnia, agitation, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, cramps, flatulence, urinary frequency, fever, cough and sinusitis.

    Sumatriptan

    • Imitrex, a well-known migraine treatment, is the brand name for sumatriptan. Imitrex is an antimigraine agent that is prescribed to treat migraines and cluster headaches. Neck stiffness, weakness, flushing, dizziness, sedation, tingling, feelings of heat or tightness and numbness are some common side effects.

    Topiramate

    • Topiramate is sold as Topamax, an anticonvulsant prescription medicine. It is prescribed primarily for the treatment of seizures and sometimes for migraines. Common side effects are abnormalities in vision, fatigue, dizziness, tremor, nausea, loss of appetite and memory loss.

    Verapamil

    • Calan, Calan SR, Isoptin, Isoptin SR, verapamil HCL, Verelen PM and Covera-HS are all brand names for verapamil. Verapamil is a prescription drug that functions as a calcium channel blocker, antidysrhythmic, antianginal and antihypertensive medication. It is used to treat hypertension, dysrhythmias, angina and rapid heart rate. Sometimes it will be prescribed to prevent migraine headaches. Some common side effects are drowsiness, swelling, nausea and constipation.

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