✴️Migraines & Cancer Pains

Migraine

Recurring, intense headache usually on one side of the head. May involve aura symptoms like bright lights, vision loss, or zigzag lines

Common Symptoms of Migraines

Throbbing or pounding pain (forehead, temple, jaw, around eyes), nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound

Causes and Triggers of Migraines

Brain chemical/electrical changes, vessel dilation, inflammation; common triggers include stress, foods, and hormones

Triptan Drugs – Migraine Treatment (Acute)

Constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation during migraine attacks. Not for prevention. Sulfa-based

G: Sumatriptan

Triptan (-triptan) (sulfa-based): Used acutely to constrict vessels and reduce inflammation in migraines

B: Imitrex

G: Eletriptan

Triptan (-triptan) (sulfa-based): Relieves acute migraines by narrowing blood vessels and decreasing inflammation

B: Relpax

Beta Blockers – Migraine Prevention

(Preventive) Used to calm the stress response and prevent blood vessel over-widening in migraine prevention (not for acute relief)

(Cancer) Acute pain

sudden/severe

(Cancer) Chronic pain

long-term, beyond recovery

(Cancer) Breakthrough pain

sudden flare-up despite ongoing pain treatment

Mild Cancer Pain Treatment

Non-opioid analgesics such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs

Moderate to Severe Cancer Pain Treatment

Opioids like oxycodone; must monitor for abuse and dependence (Schedule II controlled substances)

G: Oxycodone

Opioid Analgesic – Schedule II: Treats moderate to severe pain; high risk for abuse and dependence

B: OxyContin

Adjuvant Drugs in Cancer Pain

Drugs used alongside pain meds to improve effectiveness. Individualized based on patient needs

Pain Scale Use

Used to guide medication strength based on pain severity — higher pain level = stronger class medication

Triptans & Sulfa Allergy

Triptan drugs are sulfa-based; screen patients for sulfa allergies before use

Oxycodone Schedule Classification

Schedule II controlled substance – requires monitoring for side effects, dependence, and strict dispensing protocols

Pharmacy Tech Role – Cancer Pain Meds

Monitor pain scale use, assess patients for side effects or addiction risks, especially with chronic opioid therapy