Managing chronic migraines usually involves two types of medications: rescue (acute) treatments to stop an attack in progress, and preventive treatments to reduce how often attacks happen.
Here's a breakdown of common options:
Rescue Medications
- Pain relievers – OTC options like ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen; some Show Full Answer
Managing chronic migraines usually involves two types of medications: rescue (acute) treatments to stop an attack in progress, and preventive treatments to reduce how often attacks happen.
Here's a breakdown of common options:
Rescue Medications
- Pain relievers – OTC options like ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen; some combined with caffeine (e.g., Excedrin Migraine)
- Triptans – e.g., sumatriptan (Imitrex), rizatriptan (Maxalt)
- CGRP receptor antagonists (gepants) – e.g., ubrogepant (Ubrelvy), rimegepant (Nurtec)
- Dihydroergotamine (DHE) – an older but effective option
Preventive Medications
- CGRP monoclonal antibodies – e.g., erenumab (Aimovig), fremanezumab (Ajovy), galcanezumab (Emgality)
- Blood pressure medications – beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers
- Tricyclic antidepressants – e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline
- Anti-seizure medications – e.g., topiramate (Topamax), divalproex sodium (Depakote)
- Botox injections – FDA-approved for chronic migraine prevention One important caution: using rescue medications too frequently (more than twice a week) can actually lead to medication overuse headaches and may make chronic migraines worse over time. Always follow your doctor's guidance on how often to use them.
A MyMigraineTeam member shared: *"I suffered from chronic migraine for over 40 years. Needless to say, I have been on every med that came down the pike."*
Everyone's situation is different, so working closely with a neurologist or migraine specialist is the best way to find the right combination of treatments.
October 2
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