Revolutionizing Migraine Management: Cutting-Edge Therapies for Effective Relief

When it comes to acute measures against migraines, the focus is on drug therapy or treatment, which should be started as early as possible.

Drug therapy for migraines

Triptans are often used as medication to treat migraines: serotonin receptor agonists that trick the brain into thinking they are the messenger serotonin and thus develop its effect. In therapy, they work more quickly for some sufferers if they are taken with a hot drink.

The exception is those who suffer from a migraine with aura: You should wait until the aura has passed before taking anti-migraine solid medications such as triptans or ergotamines. Otherwise, the risk of stroke may increase.

Suppose those affected are also plagued by nausea. In that case, it is recommended to take an anti-nausea and vomiting medication such as metoclopramide (MCP) or domperidone – ideally 15 to 30 minutes before the triptan or other painkillers such as aspirin, ibuprofen or paracetamol. This also promotes gastrointestinal activity and, thus, the absorption of other medications during treatment. As soon as this antiemetic takes effect, it would help to drink a lot – preferably still mineral water.

Alternative options for pain relief

For some sufferers, rubbing peppermint oil on their temples helps against migraines as soon as an attack is imminent. Drinking coffee can also have a positive effect on treatment.

Many sufferers also report that pressing acupressure points on both sides helps to reduce migraine attacks: the affected acupressure points include the hollows between the thumb and index finger, between the temples and the end of the eyebrow and between the beginning of the eyebrow and the root of the nose.