Migraine Treatment

A migraine is a neurological condition that causes repeated, intense headaches, usually on one side of the head. These headaches can last for hours or even days. Migraines often come with other symptoms like nausea, being sick, sensitivity to light or sound, and visual changes known as aura. For many people, migraines can seriously affect daily life.

There is no cure for migraines, but with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, many people are able to manage them well. The aim is to reduce how often migraines happen, how bad they are, and how long they last.

Yes, some people find that natural methods help with their migraines. This includes avoiding known triggers like certain foods (for example, cheese, chocolate, caffeine, or alcohol), stress, changes in sleep patterns, or bright lights. Staying active, sleeping well, eating regularly, drinking enough water, and trying relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can also help. Some people benefit from therapies like acupuncture or massage, but it’s important to speak to your doctor before starting anything new.

Migraine treatment usually includes two approaches: treatments to stop the migraine when it starts (called acute treatments), and treatments to stop migraines from happening as often (called preventive treatments). Acute treatments can include over-the-counter painkillers or medicines like triptans, which target the nerves and blood vessels involved in migraines. Preventive treatments can include medicines like beta-blockers, certain antidepressants, or specialist migraine medications. At PharmXtra, we offer prescription options to help manage migraines safely and effectively, following a consultation with a registered independent prescriber.

Migraine treatments are available in different forms to suit your needs. These include tablets, nasal sprays, injections, suppositories, and patches. Tablets are most commonly used, while sprays and injections may work faster if you feel sick and cannot swallow tablets. Your doctor or prescriber can help choose the best option for you based on your symptoms and preferences.

Some migraine treatments like basic pain relief can be bought over the counter. However, stronger or targeted treatments like triptans or preventive medications usually require a prescription. At PharmXtra, all requests for prescription medications are reviewed through an online clinical consultation, and the decision to prescribe will be made by a registered independent prescriber.