Indomethacin

Indomethacin (also spelt indometacin) is a powerful NSAID class of drug.

In the 1970's specialists realised that some cluster-like headaches responded really well to this drug.

In fact of all the headache medications available, this is one that is often tried in people who have headaches restricted on one side of the head (unilateral headache), or whose headaches are associated with watering of the eye, nasal stuffiness or reddening of the eye (the "autonomic cephalalgias").

It is used a lot by headache specialists as there are several conditions for which it seems very helpful.

These include:

1. Paroxysmal Hemicrania (if you don't respond you probably do not have this diagnosis!)
2. Ice-pick Headache
3. Primary Exercise Headache
4. Cough Headache
5. Primary Headache Associated with Sexual Activity
6. Hemicrania Continua
7. Migraine (can be used as a suppository to treat a severe migraine attack)
8. Hypnic Headache
9. Nummular Headache

This drug has a <1% risk (but it is still a risk) of causing stomach or duodenal ulceration (peptic ulceration). So I normally prescribe Lansoprazole or other antacid to reduce the risk of eroding the lining of the stomach or duodenum.

It can also upset control of asthma. Cardiac or renal failure can occur, especially in older persons. Again these are quoted as <1% risks.

Remember this is a prescription only drug, and should only ever be used following consultation with your doctor. Do not order it over the internet to try it for yourself.

References