MEDICATIONS: DRUGS THAT PREVENT MIGRAINE

MEDICATIONS: DRUGS THAT PREVENT MIGRAINE

Beta-blockers

Common names

Generic names

Brand names

propranolol

Inderal

timolol

Blocadren

atenolol

Tenormin

metoprolol

Lopressor

nadolol

Corgard

How are beta-blockers taken?

Beta-blockers are taken in tablet or capsule form. Several also are available by injection, and propranolol can be taken by oral solution. Tablets and capsules should be taken whole - not crushed, broken or chewed before swallowing. Ask your physician about checking your pulse rate while taking these drugs because of their effect on blood pressure.

Important: Never stop taking beta-blockers without first talking to your physician. Your physician may gradually reduce the dose to prevent the unwanted side effects that can occur if you abruptly stop taking the drug.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible - unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.

What are the possible side effects?

Some patients report side effects, including:

· Nausea

· Fatigue

· Insomnia

· Diarrhea

· Dizziness

· Depression

When should I call my physician?

Call your physician if you have trouble breathing; cold hands and/or feet; depression; a slow heartbeat; or swelling of your ankles, feet or lower legs.

Before having any kind of surgery or emergency medical treatment, notify the physician in charge that you are taking a beta-blocker.

Are there drugs I shouldn't take with beta-blockers?

If you also are using certain other medications, your physician may need to adjust your dosage of these drugs or take other precautions. Always tell your physician if you are taking other drugs.

Antidepressants

Common names

Generic names

Brand names

Tricyclic antidepressants

amitriptyline

Elavil, Endep, Enovil

doxepin

Sinequan

nortriptyline

Pamelor, Aventyl

protriptyline

Vivactil

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors

fluoxetine

Prozac

paroxetine

Paxil

sertraline

Zoloft

How are antidepressants taken?

These drugs are taken in tablet form. Amitriptyline should be taken with food to lessen stomach upset. Take these medications only as directed by your physician.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects of these medications may include:

· Dizziness

· Drowsiness

· Dry mouth

· Constipation

· Nausea

· Urine retention

· Hunger, or weight gain

· Restlessness

When should I call my physician?

Call your physician if you develop blurred vision, confusion, difficulty speaking or swallowing, eye pain, fainting, loss of balance control, difficulty urinating, trembling, fast or irregular heartbeat, or limb stiffness.

Are there drugs I shouldn't take with antidepressants?

Certain drugs may interact with antidepressants. If you also are using these medications, your physician may want to adjust your dosage or take other precautions. Always tell your physician what other drugs you are taking.

Calcium channel blockers

Common names

Generic names

Brand names

verapamil

Calan, Isoptin

diltiazem

Cardizem

nifedipine

Adalat, Procardia

How are calcium channel blockers taken?

These medications are available in tablet or capsule form. Tablets and capsules should be taken whole - not crushed, broken or chewed - before swallowing.

Important: Never stop taking calcium channel blockers without your physician's approval. Your physician may gradually reduce the dose to prevent unwanted side effects.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible - unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects of this medication may include:

· Constipation

· Dizziness

· Facial flushing

· Depression

When should I call my physician?

Call your physician if you have trouble breathing, develop a slow or pounding heartbeat, or have a rash.

Are there drugs I shouldn't take with calcium channel blockers?

If you also are using certain other medications, your physician may need to adjust your dosage of these drugs or take other precautions. Always tell your physician if you are taking other drugs.

Serotonin antagonists

Common names

Generic names

Brand names

methysergide

Sansert

How are serotonin antagonists taken?

Methysergide, a member of the ergot alkaloid group of drugs, is used in tablet form. If it upsets your stomach, it may be taken with meals or milk. Take this medicine only as directed by your physician. To prevent unwanted effects, the drug is usually discontinued every six months for a period of one to two months, as directed.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects of this medication may include:

· Diarrhea

· Dizziness

· Drowsiness

· Nausea or vomiting

· Abdominal pain

When should I call my physician?

Call your physician if the dose prescribed does not decrease the frequency of your headaches.

In addition, call your physician if you have chest pain; tingling extremities; difficulty urinating or a large increase in urine output; fever or chills; a change in skin color; leg cramps; or pain in the limbs, groin, lower back or side.

Are there drugs I shouldn't take with serotonin antagonists?

Certain prescription and nonprescription drugs may interact with methysergide. If you are using other medications, your physician may need to adjust your dosage or take other precautions. Always tell your physician what other drugs you are taking, and if you smoke.

Anticonvulsants

Common names

Generic names

Brand names

divalproex sodium

Depakote

How is this medication taken?

This medication is taken orally in capsule or tablet form. Swallow the capsule or tablet whole, without chewing or breaking. This medicine must be taken exactly as directed by your physician. Divalproex sodium may be taken with meals or snacks to reduce stomach upset. The dose of divalproex sodium may differ from person to person. Your physician will work with you to establish the most effective dosage for the prevention of migraine. Children less than 10 years of age should not be given divalproex sodium for headache.

What are the possible side effects?

· Abdominal or stomach upset, which typically goes away after a few days

· Tiredness or weakness

Children and the elderly are particularly sensitive to the effects of divalproex sodium. If a woman is pregnant or is breast-feeding, all migraine preventive medications should be used with caution. Before prescribing this drug your physician will ask if you have any diseases involving your liver, kidney, blood or brain.

When should I call my physician?

Check with your physician if you have abdominal or stomach cramps, a change in menstrual cycle or pattern, diarrhea, noticeable hair loss, trembling of hands and/or arms, unusual weight loss or gain, indigestion and loss of appetite, or nausea or vomiting.

Although these reactions are rare, contact your physician if you find yourself becoming clumsy, unsteady or dizzy. Also, tell your physician if you have become irritable, restless or drowsy, or if your headaches increase in frequency. Contact your physician immediately if you develop a rash.

Are there drugs that I shouldn't take with this medication?

Taking aspirin while taking divalproex sodium may increase your risk of side effects associated with divalproex sodium, such as tiredness or weakness. Chlorpromazine, which is used in emergency situations for migraine attacks, also can increase the side effects of divalproex sodium. Always tell your physician if you are taking any other medications.

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