Why no opioids for migraine?
Use of opioids increases the risk of headache and chronic migraine arising from medication overuse. Opioids are controlled substances and are subject to additional prescription requirements.A drug or other substance that is tightly controlled by the government because it may be abused or cause addiction. The control applies to the way the substance is made, used, handled, stored, and distributed. Controlled substances include opioids, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, and anabolic steroids.
What migraine medicine is a controlled substance?
Your doctor may prescribe opiates which are controlled substances used to treat migraines. They are derived from the opium poppy. They work by stopping the release of the neurotransmitter Substance P which changes the way your brain understands pain. Codeine, Hydrocodone, Meperidine and Tramadol are opiates. There are various versions of migraine cocktails, which may include over-the-counter or prescription drugs. The combination that works best may vary from one person to another.