USE OF OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUGS IN MIGRAINE - ISSUES IN SELF-MEDICATION

Migraine is a prevalent condition worldwide. It has far-reaching indiv idual and societal economic impact. Almost all migraineurs (95%) take medications for headache relief and the majority use over-the-counter (OTC) medications. OTC drugs are readily accessible, affordable and ef fective. These medications are commonly used without the advice of a h ealthcare professional, hence the potential for negative health outcom es due to improper use. To avoid these problems and their potentially harmful consequences (e.g. toxicity, adverse effects), major efforts s hould be directed towards educating the public about migraine and its treatment, including the appropriate use of OTC medications.