From Aetna's Women's Health Programs

There are two types of migraine medicines – those that reduce or prevent migraines and those that stop the pain of an attack once it has started.

Abortive Medications

Abortive medications are designed to help the pain or stop an attack once it starts. These medications should be taken right after a migraine or aura begins. Some examples of abortive medicines include:

• Non-Prescription, Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs): ibuprofen; naproxen sodium
• Ergot Alkaloids: dihydroergotamine mesylate; DHE-45
• Triptans: naratriptan (Amerge); rizatriptan (Maxalt); sumatriptan (Imitrex)

Preventive Medications

Preventive medicines are designed to reduce the number of migraines a person gets. They can also help how bad a migraine gets and how long it lasts. In general, people who get one migraine (or more) per week should talk to their doctor to find out more about preventive medications. Some examples of preventive medications include:

• Beta-blockers — propranolol; timolol
• Anticonvulsants — valproate (Depakote); topiramate (Topamax)
• Tricyclic antidepressants — amitriptyline

Visit your doctor regularly to review your medicines and migraine treatment program.