Question: I've heard the term "medication overuse headache." What is this, and how do I know if I'm getting them?
Medication overuse headache, also called rebound headache, generally occurs when analgesic painkillers, prescription or over-the-counter, are taken on a frequent basis. If the use of medication is detrimental rather than beneficial to treating the headache pattern, then overuse is occurring and likely resulting in chronic headaches rather than providing headache relief. Rebound headaches also occur with medications or substances that constrict arteries such as caffeine. The analgesic or caffeine level accumulates in the body with frequent use, and as the analgesic or caffeine level falls, the headache surfaces. It can become a vicious cycle. As the patient increases their medication intake for headache relief, the medication becomes less effective and paradoxically they are worsening their headache disorder.
Rebound headache is generally suspected when analgesics are taken more than several times a week on a regular basis. It is important for the doctor to know exactly how much medicine the patient takes each day, week and month. This information can only be obtained if the patient logs every dose. Once the diagnosis of rebound headaches has been established, there are various ways to withdraw analgesics to resolve the rebound headaches. Some doctors suggest a slow taper off of the analgesic while others suggest an abrupt discontinuation of the medication. Some doctors even start another medication to wean the person off of the analgesic. It is important to consult your physician to discuss whether you have rebound headaches and what the appropriate treatment is to resolve this situation for you.
Medication overuse headache, also called rebound headache, generally occurs when analgesic painkillers, prescription or over-the-counter, are taken on a frequent basis. If the use of medication is detrimental rather than beneficial to treating the headache pattern, then overuse is occurring and likely resulting in chronic headaches rather than providing headache relief. Rebound headaches also occur with medications or substances that constrict arteries such as caffeine. The analgesic or caffeine level accumulates in the body with frequent use, and as the analgesic or caffeine level falls, the headache surfaces. It can become a vicious cycle. As the patient increases their medication intake for headache relief, the medication becomes less effective and paradoxically they are worsening their headache disorder.
Rebound headache is generally suspected when analgesics are taken more than several times a week on a regular basis. It is important for the doctor to know exactly how much medicine the patient takes each day, week and month. This information can only be obtained if the patient logs every dose. Once the diagnosis of rebound headaches has been established, there are various ways to withdraw analgesics to resolve the rebound headaches. Some doctors suggest a slow taper off of the analgesic while others suggest an abrupt discontinuation of the medication. Some doctors even start another medication to wean the person off of the analgesic. It is important to consult your physician to discuss whether you have rebound headaches and what the appropriate treatment is to resolve this situation for you.
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