CODEINE SELF-MEDICATION IN A HEADACHE PATIENT

Self-medicating behavior for the treatment of headaches is a widesprea d phenomenon with costly and hazardous consequences. The case presente d illustrates the ramifications of such behavior and suggests an integ rated approach to the management of headaches. Biological mechanisms f or the aggravation of headaches by self-medication are discussed and i ntegrated with psychological observations. The existing epidemiologic studies of self-medication are reviewed and reveal a need for further studies, particularly in the United States.