Top 3 Headache Home Remedies
beta blockers: atenolol (Tenormin); bisoprolol (Zebeta)
tricyclics: amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep); doxepin (Adapin, Sinequan)
calcium-channel blockers: verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, Verelan)
anticonvulsants: divalproex (Depakote); gabapentin (Neurontin); topimirate (Topamax)
triptans: almotriptan (Axert); eletriptan (Relpax); sumatriptan (Imitrex).Acetaminophen (Tylenol and others) is a generally safe non-aspirin headache remedy. But doses above 3 grams per day, especially when combined with alcohol, can cause potentially fatal liver damage. If you consume three or more alcoholic drinks a day, every day, don’t take acetaminophen.
Aspirin quells pain and may prevent migraine headaches in some people when taken regularly. Long-term side effects include kidney damage and gastrointestinal problems, such as stomach pain, heartburn, or nausea. Bleeding from the stomach can also occur, often in such minute quantities as to go unnoticed. However, over time anemia may result, causing fatigue— which, in turn, may increase the frequency of headaches. Avoid aspirin if you have reflux, gastritis, or ulcers.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox), and ketoprofen (Actron, Orudis, others). In some people, NSAIDs help prevent migraine headaches. Their long-term side effects are similar to those for aspirin.
Most healthy people who have mild to moderately painful headaches once in a while can take OTC headache remedies. But if you need to take an OTC painkiller several times a week, you should see your doctor.Some people feel more comfortable seeking natural headache relief, in the form of plant-based or mineral supplements. Some of the most widely used preparations include:
Butterbur, an herb derived from plants in the genus Petasites
Feverfew, A daisy-like flower native to Europe
Peppermint oil, a culinary herb
Magnesium, a mineral
Coenzyme Q10 , an enzyme found in mitochondria, the energy factories of our cells
Vitamin B12
Consult your doctor before taking any of these supplements, as they can interact with medications to treat headaches or other conditions. The FDA does not regulate the effectiveness or safety of these products.