Q. I am desperate to find a way to relieve my headaches. I have been prescribed at least a dozen different drugs for tension headaches and migraines. Here is a partial list of what I have tried in vain: propranolol, gabapentin, divalproex and nortriptyline. I have taken as many as 12 Motrin pills in a day.
Imitrex helps my migraines but does nothing for my daily tension headaches. I would love to have a more natural way to control my headaches. What can you tell me about feverfew and riboflavin?
A. Frequent use of pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may actually result in rebound headaches. That is, the medicine may actually be setting you up for a vicious cycle of more frequent headaches.
The herb feverfew, the B vitamin riboflavin and the mineral magnesium have all been shown to be helpful in preventing migraines (Clinical Journal of Pain, June, 2009). Other natural approaches include the herb butterbur and the supplement Coenzyme Q10. Acupuncture and biofeedback can also be helpful.
We are sending you our brand new Guide to Headaches and Migraines with more detailed information on these approaches.
