Skip to content
DE
Adverse effect

Headache

Headache types, warning signs and evidence on migraine prevention.

Is every headache a migraine?

No. Migraine often causes intense one-sided pain with nausea and sensitivity to light. It is a distinct condition, not a label for every headache. 1

What can contribute?

Dehydration, missed meals, stress and overuse of painkillers can contribute to headaches. A diary may help identify patterns. 2

When is a headache an emergency?

A sudden extremely painful headache, weakness, confusion or difficulty speaking requires emergency assessment. 2

Nutrients with the strongest ratings

No nutrients are rated for this effect yet.

What have supplements been studied for?

The supplement evidence discussed here concerns migraine prevention. Small studies cannot establish that a supplement treats every type of headache. 3

MagnesiumMixed

Possible preventive benefit, but the German guideline describes uncertain evidence and a modest expected effect; diarrhea can limit dosing. 4

RiboflavinToo little evidence

Some small studies suggest prevention benefits, with limited certainty. 3

Coenzyme Q10Mixed

The combination with magnesium and riboflavin reduced attack severity but not frequency in the trial summarized by the guideline. 4

What matters beyond supplements?

The German guideline includes endurance exercise, behavioral approaches and preventive medicines according to attack burden and treatment response. 4

Are natural remedies automatically safe?

No. NCCIH highlights liver-toxicity concerns with butterbur and possible supplement interactions with medicines. 3

Questions people ask

Can supplements stop any headache?

The evidence summarized here is limited and mainly about preventing migraine. 3

Why keep a diary?

It can help relate attacks to possible triggers and track changes. 1

Does magnesium always help?

No. The guideline describes uncertain evidence and modest expected benefit. 4

When should I seek urgent help?

Sudden extreme pain or new weakness, confusion or speech problems needs emergency assessment. 2

Sources