Cluster Headaches
Treatments

Taking medications to prevent cluster headaches before they occur is typically the most effective treatment for cluster headaches. These medications include:

• Calcium Channel Blockers Calcium channel blockers, such as Verapamil, which relax the muscles in the walls of your blood vessels, may help prevent cluster headaches.
• Anti-seizure Medications Medications used to control seizures in conditions such as epilepsy may be prescribed to help control cluster headaches. These include divalproex topiramate and gabapentin.
• Lithium This medication may help prevent chronic and episodic cluster headaches.
• Corticosteroids These anti-inflammatory drugs, such as prednisone, may provide relief from headache pain.

If your doctor prescribes medication, be sure to ask:

• How often the medication should be taken
• If the medication should be taken with meals or on an empty stomach
• What to do if pain or other symptoms persist