Triptans and NSAIDs: 1 better than 2?

It’s become very common to use NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen (ie Advil) or naproxen (ie Aleve, Naprosyn) along with other medications.  But, as a recent study points out, sometimes more is less.

This study from Merk & Co. surveyed 8440 oral triptan users.  The idea of the study was to find out what combinations were being used, and how effective they were.

Patients were put into 6 categories – some took NSAIDs first, then triptans.  Others took them both at the same time, and so on.

The patients who seemed to get the most relief were those taking only triptans, triptans and NSAIDs together, or NSAIDs first, then triptans.

But one interesting outcome was that, not only were those taking only triptans comparatively satisfied with their treatment, they also had less nausea than any other groups.  In other words, at times it seems that triptans by themselves are better than triptans with NSAIDs.

Though common wisdom would say that attacking your migraine on two fronts will be more effective, we certainly don’t want to take more medication than we need to.  If you’re frequently using these medications, you may find that cutting out the NSAID won’t hurt.  It will also avoid the dangers of long term use, such as significant gastrointestinal problems.

Talk to your doctor, and try simplifying your therapy.  You might find that your symptoms even improve over time.

Read more about this study at Acute migraine treatment with oral triptans and NSAIDs in a managed care population.