Non-Medication Methods for Preventing Migraines
A number of methods for reducing headaches do not involve pharmaceuticals. These include:

• Diet: Avoiding any dietary triggers is essential. Keeping a regular meal schedule is also important, even on weekends and holidays. Missing meals can be a trigger for some migraine sufferers. Some doctors recommend a diet low in tyramine-containing foods. These include chocolate, alcoholic beverages, processed meats, cultured dairy products, monosodium glutamate (MSG) and peanuts, for example.
• Exercise: As a stress reliever and general promoter of health, exercise is encouraged.
• Sleep: Keep a regular sleep schedule. Get enough sleep but avoid oversleeping.
• Stress Reduction: Stress is a risk factor for most headaches. Biofeedback and relaxation methods such as breathing techniques can reduce the effects of stress on headaches. For more on relaxation techniques, see Relaxation.

Medications for Treating Existing Migraines
Over-the-counter medications are the first line of defense for mild migraine, but advances in prescription drugs for interrupting serious migraine pain have changed the face of migraine treatment. Migraine medications include:

• OTC Treatments: Many mild migraines can be treated successfully with over-the-counter medications, particularly those combining acetaminophen, aspirin and caffeine, such as Excedrin Extra Strength, the first OTC medication approved specifically for migraine treatment. Naproxen (e.g., Aleve) is somewhat more effective than aspirin or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil). High doses of these nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen, combined with metoclopramide (Reglan) to reduce nausea and vomiting, have been effective in several studies. Long-term use of NSAIDs can lead to gastrointestinal problems, including gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Triptans: These raise the level of serotonin in the brain, reducing the dilation of blood vessels, the source of the pain. Sumatriptan, the first drug developed for migraine, has been joined by several other triptans available in oral form and nasal sprays. Particularly when taken at the first sign of headache, these can be effective in as little as 15 minutes, and offer relief to most migraine sufferers. Side effects: nausea, dizziness, muscle weakness. Not recommended for women who are pregnant or for people with uncontrolled diabetes or cardiovascular conditions.