Treatments are often divided into two types: abortive and profylactic. The former addresses a medical condition in progress and the latter prevents its occurence. Abortive therapy relieves symptoms of a disorder, preventing it from getting worse, and intends to stop a medical condition from progressing any further.
A group of drugs called triptans are usually preferred for abortive treatment of headaches. They should be taken as soon as possible during the typical migraine attack. The most common prophylactic therapies for headaches include antidepressants, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and anti-seizure medications. Cluster headaches may also be treated with ergotamine and sumatriptan, as well as by inhaling pure oxygen. The goal of abortive therapy for cluster headache is fast, effective and consistent relief. Because a cluster headache is relatively short in duration, the abortives should work within 10-15 minutes to be considered adequate therapy.
A group of drugs called triptans are usually preferred for abortive treatment of headaches. They should be taken as soon as possible during the typical migraine attack. The most common prophylactic therapies for headaches include antidepressants, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and anti-seizure medications. Cluster headaches may also be treated with ergotamine and sumatriptan, as well as by inhaling pure oxygen. The goal of abortive therapy for cluster headache is fast, effective and consistent relief. Because a cluster headache is relatively short in duration, the abortives should work within 10-15 minutes to be considered adequate therapy.
