When treating a migraine, timing is everything

When to take medication

Migraine attacks typically come on in the following way:

• Prodrome: It is the first part of a migraine attack and it can occur hours or even days before the headache begins. Sometimes, but not always, you may experience symptoms such as sugar cravings, extreme fatigue, irritability, uncontrollable yawning, and an increased need to urinate.
• Auras: At this stage, you may experience visual disturbances, numbness, or speech difficulties up to one hour before the attack (in about 20% of migraine sufferers)
• Migraine attack: That is when you will start feeling pain, often on only one side of the head. This is the time to take medication, before the pain becomes too intense.  
• Intense pain phase: This phase is often accompanied by nausea or vomiting and intolerance to noise, light, or smells. If you wait until this phase before taking medication, it will likely be less effective, or the nausea or vomiting may prevent you from taking it.
• Resolution (or postdrome): You will feel gradual disappearance of pain and other symptoms but may be left feeling drained, exhausted, or “hung over.” 

Keep a migraine diary

A migraine diary is a simple and effective way to gain a better understanding of how your migraine attacks evolve. Note the following details in your diary:

• When the migraine starts and how long it lasts
• Pain intensity
• Name, dose, and effectiveness of medication used
• Symptoms leading up to the attack
• Potential triggering factors

You can try to identify the factors that trigger your migraine attacks. This may not be easy as they can vary from one attack to another. Some typical triggers include lack of sleep, irregular meals, stress, menstruation, dehydration, certain foods, and alcoholic beverages.

Your pharmacist is there for you

If your current treatment is ineffective or is causing unwanted side effects, consult your pharmacist. They will assess your situation and propose solutions.

Ask your pharmacist for advice before taking medication for other types of pain, to ensure that it is compatible with your migraine medication.