Some people also experience a visual or sensory “aura” before the headache begins, which may include flashing lights, blind spots, or tingling sensations. Migraines are more common in women, often linked to hormonal changes, and can significantly disrupt work, daily activities, and quality of life. Over the counter products include single or combination therapy, and to make the right selection you need to understand your options.

 

Pharmacist-recommended products​​ 

Please be advised that if you buy something through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.
 

Excedrin Migraine® combines acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine to target multiple migraine pathways at once. This blend reduces pain, inflammation, and blood vessel dilation—common contributors to migraine symptoms. It works best when taken at the very first sign of migraine, especially when symptoms include throbbing pain, nausea, or light sensitivity. 

View on Amazon

​

Ibuprofen (200 mg)- a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that eases headache pain by reducing inflammation and relieving pressure in affected tissues. It is effective for tension headaches and migraines triggered by sinus pressure or neck/shoulder tightness. Gel capsules may offer slightly faster absorption for quicker relief. 

View on Amazon

​

Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) provides pain relief without affecting the stomach lining, making it a suitable option for individuals who cannot take NSAIDs. While effective on its own for mild headaches, it offers more benefit in migraines when combined with caffeine or aspirin, which enhance its pain-relieving effect.

View on Amazon

​

Advil Dual Action® combines ibuprofen and acetaminophen in a single tablet—two different mechanisms working together. Ibuprofen reduces inflammation while acetaminophen blocks pain signals in the brain. This combination provides broader relief using lower doses of each, which may reduce the likelihood of side effects.

View on Amazon

​

Goody’s Powders®- provide fast-dissolving pain relief in powder packets that are absorbed quickly. They come in multiple formulations, some containing aspirin and caffeine, others without. These powders are helpful for individuals who prefer rapid onset or dislike swallowing tablets.

View on Amazon

​

BC® Extra Strength Powder- delivers aspirin, caffeine, and salicylamide in powder form for rapid absorption. This formula is often used for tough, persistent headaches when fast relief is needed and tablets may take longer to start working.

View on Amazon

​

MigreLief® Comfort Stick- a topical roll-on containing peppermint oil and menthol to create a cooling, soothing sensation on the temples, forehead, or neck. It offers a non-oral, drug-free option that can be safely used alongside oral medications for added comfort during headache or migraine episodes.

View on Amazon

​

Pharmacist Recommendations

• For fast relief, powders like Goody’s® or BC® act quickly when dissolved in water, since they absorb faster than tablets.

• For pain that comes with inflammation or stiffness, use Ibuprofen or Advil Dual Action.

• If caffeine is tolerated, Excedrin® products are excellent first-line choices—migraine formulas contain aspirin, while tension headache formulas are aspirin-free.

• If you prefer non-oral relief, the MigreLief® Comfort Stick provides a natural cooling option applied topically.

• Always take these pain medicines with food.

• Avoid frequent use of combination products to lower the risk of rebound headaches.

​

You may also want to visit:

Muscle and Joint pain

Sore throat relief

​​​

​