Migraines are more than just a bad headache. Here’s how this over-the-counter pain reliever can soothe your symptoms—fast.
Migraines are a complex neurovascular disorder. What does this mean? It means that the nerves and blood vessels are involved in the pathophysiology of a migraine. A migraine headache arises from activation of certain nerve cells which results in the release of inflammatory chemicals. This causes inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels in the head—activating the pain receptors that transmit pain signals to the brain and create the sensation of pain.1
When the telltale signs of a migraine strike—the pulsing or throbbing pain on one or both sides of your head, sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, and even a loss of vision—it can be downright scary.1 After all, this type of head pain is often debilitating, and symptoms can last anywhere from four to 72 hours.
Excedrin Migraine contains three components: acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine, which help target pain in different ways. Research has demonstrated that not only is this combination of ingredients effective in treating migraines, but it is also significantly more effective than the individual components alone.2,3 For exactly how it works, read on.
Aspirin Tames Pain-Causing Inflammation
A well-known non-steroidal anti-inflammatory that has been used for more than a century; aspirin works is by blocking the body’s production of prostaglandins in the peripheral nervous system. Prostaglandins are one of the inflammatory chemicals that cause the blood vessels to become inflamed and swell during a migraine attack.4 In general, aspirin helps to prevent the transmission of pain signals to the brain by stopping the production of prostaglandins.
Acetaminophen: The Tried-and-True Pain Reliever
Acetaminophen, like aspirin, also appears to inhibits enzymes in the body that produce pain-causing prostaglandins.4, 5 However, while aspirin inhibits prostaglandins in the peripheral nervous system, acetaminophen appears to focus its pain-fighting power in the central nervous system.5 While the way acetaminophen works is not fully understood, it is believed to elevate the pain threshold. This allows you to tolerate more pain, therefore providing pain relief.
