Headache

Cluster Headaches

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Treatment

Taking medications to prevent cluster headaches before they occur is typically the most effective treatment for cluster headaches. These medications include:

Calcium Channel Blockers — Calcium channel blockers, such as Verapamil, which relax the muscles in the walls of your blood vessels, may help prevent cluster headaches.

Anti-seizure Medications — Medications used to control seizures in conditions such as epilepsy may be prescribed to help control cluster headaches. These include divalproex topiramate and gabapentin.

Lithium — This medication may help prevent chronic and episodic cluster headaches.

Corticosteroids — These anti-inflammatory drugs, such as prednisone, may provide relief from headache pain.

If your doctor prescribes you medication, be sure to ask:

• How often the medication should be taken
• If the medication should be taken with meals or on an empty stomach
• What to do if pain or other symptoms persist

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated December 17, 2008