Rebound Headaches

Posted by Jennifer Gerics Oct 9, 2007

Taking over-the-counter headache medications can sometimes actually trigger more headaches. Apparently, using these types of drugs more than two days a week can cause a return of the headache (possibly worse and for a longer duration) when the medication is stopped. The body seems to grow tolerant of the medication and requires more of it to suppress pain. The body can also go through "withdrawl" from the substance, causing the same kind of pain the medication was supposed to suppress. This is also an issue with caffeine, some muscle relaxants, and some decongestants. Headaches may need a more durable treatment instead of a quick fix.