This familiar non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, orNSAID, is effective for some headaches.
Ibuprofen is available over the counter (OTC) as well as by prescription.
As an OTC product, it’s sold under the brand names Advil and Motrin.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
It’s also available in generic and store-brand forms, which often are less expensive.
NSAIDs
Ibuprofen is among the medications most often used for migraine pain.
According to the American Migraine Foundation, NSAIDs are often nearly as effective as prescription medications for pain relief.
NSAIDs also cost less and are less likely than other medications to lead tomedication overuse headaches.
Ibuprofen is similar to other NSAIDs, including OTC and prescription options.
Other OTC NSAIDs include aspirin and Aleve (naproxen).
Each works a bit differently.
For example, Aleve lasts a few hours longer than ibuprofen.
All of these drugs work by blocking an enzyme calledcyclooxygenase(COX).
This enzyme helps produce inflammatory chemicals likeprostaglandinsthat play a role in headache pain.
When used correctly, ibuprofen is safe for most people.
However, in total, only a small number of people benefited from ibuprofen at all.
About 56% of people felt that their pain level had decreased to mild after two hours.
Side Effects
Ibuprofen is associated with side effects ranging from common and mild to potentially serious.
These risks are heightened at higher doses, which is why taking it as directed is essential.
Aspirin has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
Rothrock JF.Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for acute migraine treatment.
doi:10.1002/14651858.CD008039.pub3
Curfman G.FDA strengthens warning that NSAIDs increase heart attack and stroke risk.
