Could Your Medicine Be Causing More Headaches Than It Cures?
Headaches are a common issue in the UK, with over 10 million people experiencing them regularly. They account for one in every 25 visits to a GP. Understanding and managing these headaches is crucial, as they can be caused or exacerbated by medicine.
Doctors must first determine if a headache signals a serious underlying condition or is benign. Treatment varies depending on the type of headache. For instance, anti-sickness medicine may be prescribed for migraines, while mental health support and lifestyle changes might be recommended for tension headaches.
Certain medicines can lead to frequent headaches with prolonged use. These include high doses of acetaminophen, certain antidepressants like citalopram, and drugs such as apremilast and metoclopramide. People at higher risk are children, the elderly, those with liver or kidney impairments, and individuals using these medicines repeatedly or improperly. Even patients who frequently use analgesics can develop medication-overuse headaches.
Medication-overuse headaches can occur in people with migraines, tension headaches, or other painful conditions after regular painkiller use for three months or longer. Keeping a headache diary can aid diagnosis and management. Regular use of acetaminophen, even within recommended daily limits, can trigger chronic headaches in some individuals. Opiates like codeine and common painkillers such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs can also cause headaches as a side effect. Medication-overuse headaches can develop if painkillers are taken on 15 or more days per month, or even less frequently with opiates.
Medication-overuse headaches are a well-documented medical phenomenon that can be reversed once identified. If you're experiencing regular headaches, it's important to consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
