Headache is one of the most common condition that everyone may face. Headaches can make it difficult to concentrate, work, or even enjoy leisure time. The good news is that several different medications can help relieve the pain and symptoms of headaches. If you suffer from frequent or severe headaches, you may be looking for the best medication to relieve your pain.
Over-the-counter medications can be effective for some people, but they don’t work for everyone. For some people, prescription medications may be necessary. The type of medication you take will depend on the severity of your headaches and your response to medication. Keep reading to learn more about the best medication for headaches, including types, doses, and side effects.
OTC Drugs
OTC drugs are used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including headaches. While many different types of OTC drugs are available, some of the most common headache medications include ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen. These drugs work differently to relieve headaches and have different side effects.
Ibruprofen
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, hormones that cause inflammation. Ibuprofen is available in many forms, including tablets, capsules, gels, creams, and liquids. It is also available as a generic drug.
Dosage
Ibuprofen comes in many forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and gels. The most common dose of over-the-counter ibuprofen is 200 mg, but doses can range from 50 to 800 mg. Prescription ibuprofen is available in doses of up to 1200 mg.
Side effects
Ibuprofen can be taken with or without food. The most common side effects of ibuprofen are stomach pain, gas, and indigestion. Ibuprofen can also cause more serious side effects, including ulcers, bleeding, and kidney damage. If you experience these side effects, stop taking ibuprofen and see your doctor.
Acetaminophen
In addition to reducing fever and pain, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an anti-inflammatory drug. Acetaminophen doesn’t have a clear mechanism of action. It works by blocking signals that send pain signals to the brain. Acetaminophen is available in many forms, including tablets, capsules, gummies, and liquids. It is also available in generic form.
Dosage
The suggested dosage in adults should be one or two 500 mg tablets four times per day. One should wait at least four hours to take another dose. Paracetamol for kids is available in tablets, syrup or suppositories, starting at up to 3 months.
Paracetamol dosages as high as 1,000 mg from Trusted Source can help someone suffering from moderate to severe headaches.
Side Effects
Side effects from acetaminophen are rare but can occur. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, constipation, and upset stomach. More serious side effects include allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, and liver damage. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Aspirin
Aspirin is a medication used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It’s also sometimes used to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots. You can buy aspirin over the counter in most pharmacies. It’s available in several forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and gels.
Dosage
Regular aspirin is the OTC form of the drug. It’s available in different strengths, including 81 mg, 325 mg, and 500 mg tablets. Low-dose aspirin is the prescription form of the drug. It’s available in strengths of 81 mg and 325 mg tablets. The recommended dose of aspirin for headaches varies depending on the intensity of the pain. For mild pain, the recommended dose is 325 mg every four to six hours. For moderate pain, the recommended dose is 325 mg every four hours. For severe pain, the recommended dose is 325 mg every two hours.
Side Effects
Although aspirin is generally safe, it can cause side effects, especially if taken in high doses. The most common side effects of aspirin are gastrointestinal, such as upset stomach, heartburn, and nausea. Aspirin can also cause bleeding in the stomach and intestines. More serious side effects include kidney damage, hearing loss, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Prescription Pain Relievers
Prescription pain relievers can be very effective at treating headache pain, but they should only be used as directed by a doctor. The most common types of prescription headache pain relievers are:
Triptans
Triptans are a medication used to relieve pain from migraines and cluster headaches. They work by narrowing the blood vessels around the brain, reducing the inflammation and pressure that cause these headaches. Triptans are available as both injectable and oral medications.
Dosage
As recommended by the Physician or doctor according to your pain condition.
Side Effects
Triptans’ most common side effects include nausea, dizziness, fatigue and drowsiness. Triptans can also cause chest pain and tightness, so it’s important to talk to your doctor if you have any heart conditions or are taking other medications that could interact with a triptan.
Oxaprozin (Daypro)
Oxaprozin (Daypro) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for the relief of moderate to severe pain. It is available in both oral and topical formulations. Oxaprozin may be used to relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual cramps, and headache. It is also indicated for the management of fever.
Dosage
Oxaprozin is available as an oral tablet and is usually taken two or three times a day. This medication is not suitable for everyone and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about oxaprozin.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of oxaprozin are gastrointestinal, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Other side effects include dizziness, headache, dizziness, and skin rash. More serious side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers, kidney problems, and cardiovascular events, have been reported with NSAIDs, but the incidence of these events is rare.
Bottomline
There are many headaches, and each type responds better to different medications. If you have tension headaches, ibuprofen or other NSAIDs may help. For migraines, you may need prescription medication. Over-the-counter medication may help with all types of headaches, but it is always best to speak with a doctor.
