Headache + migraine

Question 1

Ibuprofen (200mg) tablets

Answer 1

Adults, children >12: swallow whole 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours as necessary (max 6 tabs a day)
- Adverse effects: GI upset / headache / nausea
Max 3 days

Question 2

Metoclopramide (5mg) + paracetamol (500mg)

Answer 2

S3 t/f need to record the dispensing
- Adults: 1-2 tablets at the first sign of migraine every 4 hours if necessary (max 6/d)
- improve absorption / helps with nausea
- (don’t take paracetamol at the same time)
- MAX 5 DAYS
- Adverse effects: fatigue, headache, GI upset

Question 3

Headache/migraine referral

Answer 3

• speech difficulties, memory problems, confusion
• after recent neck or head trauma
• sudden or no clear trigger
• > 3 migraine attacks a month
• suspected med overuse headache
• suspected drug reaction
• neck stiffness, fever, vomiting
• headache triggered by eyestrain

Question 4

sumatriptan (50mg)

Answer 4

S3 so record
- Swallow whole
Adults (18-65yrs): initially 1 tablet at 1st sight of migraine
- Adverse effects: drowsiness, weakness