Migraine Medications: Types & Uses - A Comprehensive Guide

A variety of medications are used to combat migraines. Typically, the medications have one of two purposes: to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks or to stop a migraine already in progress.

Anti-Seizure Meds

• Antiepileptic drugs like Depakote, Topamax and Neurontin can calm the overstimulated brain cells and prevent migraines.

Blood Pressure Medications

• Medications used to combat high blood pressure are also used to prevent migraines in some patients. Those meds include calcium channel blockers, such as Calan, Verelan and Isoptin, and beta blockers, like Inderal.

Antidepressants

• Drugs for depression, such as Elavil and Sinequan, can prevent migraines in some people.

Abortive Meds

• Triptans are a class of migraine medications that can stop a migraine once it starts, especially if taken during the early stages of the migraine. Examples include Imitrex, Zomig and Maxalt.

Pain Relievers

• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can reduce the pain of migraines for some people.

Narcotics

• Prescription narcotics can also reduce the pain for some but will not end the migraine like a triptan can.