Headache: painkillers may be the cause

Painkillers and migraine medications can aggravate headaches and turn them into chronic illness if they are taken too often or overdosed. At least the German Neurology Society (DGN) and the German Migraine and Headache Society (DMKG) badume this. "Most patients do not suspect that painkillers can be the cause of pain," said Hans-Christoph Diener, expert on headaches at the DGN. People who often have headaches should take preventive measures to avoid falling into a vicious cycle of pain and medication.

In an interview with FOCUS Online, Hans-Christoph Diener explains badgesics and migraine remedies. The badociation is rather weak for painkillers such as ibuprofen and aspirin. "This should also apply to paracetamol, which is also less effective in the treatment of migraine attacks.More problematic is the use of combined preparations containing multiple badgesics and caffeine.Special precautions should be taken with the triptans and ergot alkaloids.

Do not use migraine more often than ten days a month

Doctors talk about chronic headaches caused by the abuse of drugs, for example, when patients have had at least 15 months of at least three months Have headaches on a monthly basis and take painkillers for more than 14 days.Women are more often affected than men

"Migraines should generally not be used more than ten days a month," advises Diener.Most would be a preventative treatment of headaches, such as endurance sports, relaxation and stress management.

In a Diener directive and colleagues recommend a three-step approach for people who are abusive and persistent headaches:

• Patients: "About a third to half of patients manage to take less pain medication or migraine less often, "says Diener.
• Prophylaxis: Medications such as topiramate and botulinum toxin can help prevent migraines and headaches.
• Breaking of medication: Withdrawal should always be done with medical care.

In their review, Diener and colleagues point out that an badociation between frequent drug use and worsening headache is accepted, but not proven in all patients.

with dpa information

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