migraine treatments for children

Medication for headaches offers three lines of defense.
First-line medication includes over-the-counter pain relievers — Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Panadol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin), and naproxen sodium (Aleve) are most common. Because of potential side effects, do not give aspirin or naproxen to a child unless you consult with a physician.
A second group of drugs aims to relieve more severe pain, especially when a headache has already started — Examples are ergotamine and sumatriptan, which are available only by prescription. These are sometimes combined with medications to relieve nausea and vomiting.
The third group includes drugs designed to prevent headaches from starting — Included here are tricyclic antidepressants, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and serotonin antagonists. These medications also require a prescription.


Carefully follow the instructions for taking any medication, and be sure to ask your doctor about the potential benefits and risks. In high doses, even over-the-counter pain relievers can be dangerous. Don't give your child pain relievers along with cold medication, as some cold medications already include pain relievers.

To make your child's treatment more effective, ask for a medication schedule that involves the fewest possible doses per day. See if your child can avoid doses during school hours. Also, monitor your child's medication. One simple strategy is to give children medication and stay to watch them swallow it.