|
Headache |
 |
 |
Cluster Headaches
 Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Treatment Most doctors believe that taking medications to prevent cluster headaches before they occur is the most effective treatment. These medications include:
-
Lithium -- This is useful for both episodic and especially chronic cluster headaches.
-
Corticosteroids -- Prednisone is an example of these inflammation suppressing drugs that may provide relief.
-
Calcium Channel Blockers -- Calcium channel blockers, which relax the muscles in the walls of your blood vessels, may help prevent cluster headaches. The medication Verapamil is one of the drugs in this group that has been effective.
-
Anti-seizure Medications -- Medications used to control seizures in conditions such as epilepsy may be prescribed to help control cluster headaches. These medications include divalproex topiramate and gabapentin.
If your doctor prescribes medication, be sure to ask for the following information:
- 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 May 8, 2007
|
|
