Medication overuse headache
Medication Overuse Headache
Medication Overuse Headache (MOH), also known as drug-induced headache, rebound headache or medication-misuse headache, is a condition where a patient suffers from chronic headache due to overuse of medication. Pronounced as /mɛdɪˈkeɪʃən oʊvərˈjuːs ˈhɛdˌeɪk/.
Etymology
The term "Medication Overuse Headache" is derived from the English words "medication" (from Latin medicatio meaning "healing"), "overuse" (from Old English ofer and usian meaning "excessive use"), and "headache" (from Old English heafod and ace meaning "pain in the head").
Definition
Medication Overuse Headache is a condition characterized by chronic headaches that occur due to the frequent or excessive use of headache medication. This can occur with various types of medications, including analgesics, triptans, and opioids.
Symptoms
Symptoms of MOH can vary, but often include a persistent headache that occurs daily or nearly every day. The headache is often described as a dull, constant ache that is present upon waking and may improve with medication, only to return as the medication wears off.
Causes
The exact cause of MOH is not fully understood, but it is believed to be due to changes in the brain and central nervous system caused by frequent or excessive use of headache medication. This can lead to a cycle of medication overuse, where the patient takes more medication to relieve the headache, which in turn leads to more headaches.
Treatment
Treatment for MOH typically involves the discontinuation of the overused medication, often under the supervision of a healthcare provider. This can lead to a temporary worsening of the headache, known as a "withdrawal headache". Other treatments may include preventive medications and behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Medication overuse headache
- Wikipedia's article - Medication overuse headache
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