These are the migraine medications which can be bought over the counter without a doctor prescription. These medications are often very effective when they are taken at the first indication of a migraine attack and are not advisable to be taken once a headache worsens. Tablets that dissolve in a glass of water are a good alternative as they are absorbed quickly by the body. Many people who have migraines often find over the counter medicines help to reduce their symptoms.
Aspirin
A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves pain, and reduces inflammation and fever. It works by reducing substances in the body that causes pain, fever and inflammation. It is not suitable for Children under 16 years to take aspirin unless it is under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Aspirin is also not recommended for adults who have a history of stomach problems, such as stomach ulcers, liver, kidney problems, and Asthma. Taking aspirin during late pregnancy may cause bleeding in the mother or the baby during delivery. It can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
Ibuprofen
A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which reduces fever and treat pain or inflammation caused by a headache. It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body and is best taken after intake of food. It is less likely to cause stomach irritation, but it is not recommended for anyone who has high blood pressure, kidney problems or a stomach ulcer. It is not advisable for children’s younger than 2 years. Taking ibuprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy may harm the unborn baby. It is not known whether ibuprofen passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby.
Paracetamol
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is a pain reliever and a fever reducer. The exact mechanism of how this drug works is not known. You should experience no side effects when taking the recommended dosage. However, it should not be taken by anyone with kidney or liver problems. The maximum amount of paracetamol for adults is 1 gram (1000 mg) per dose and 4 grams (4000 mg) per day. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol may increase your risk of liver damage while taking paracetamol.
Codeine
Codeine is an opioid pain medication, related to morphine also sometimes called a narcotic and is therefore only allowed in small amounts in non-prescription medicine. Codeine is used to treat mild to moderately severe pain. Even small doses can cause constipation in some people, it can be addictive and, if taken frequently, can cause rebound headaches. You should not use Codeine if you have an uncontrolled breathing disorder, a bowel obstruction called paralytic ileus, or frequent asthma attacks or hyperventilation.
Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan is a headache medicine that narrows blood vessels around the brain. It also reduces substances in the body that can trigger headache pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other migraine symptoms. Previously, it was available only on prescription but now it can be purchased over the counter from the pharmacist. It contains the active ingredient sumatriptan, which is part of a class of drugs known as Triptans.
Always make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow the dosage recommendations. Children’s should not be given these drugs without the guidance of healthcare professional. Taking any form of painkiller frequently can make migraines worse. This is sometimes called “Medication overuse headache” or “Painkiller headache”.