What are over-the-counter migraine medicines?

The Federal Drug Administration has approved three over-the-counter medications for migraine relief as of October 2014: Excedrin Migraine, Advil Migraine and Motrin Migraine Pain, according to the National Headache Foundation. Excedrin Migraine contains caffeine, aspirin and acetaminophen. Advil Migraine and Motrin Migraine Pain contain ibuprofen.

To get the best results, migraine sufferers should take medications at the first sign of a migraine and rest in a dark room, according to Mayo Clinic. Although some medications are marketed for migraines, over-the-counter drugs may be ineffective against severe migraines. These medications also cause ulcers and overuse headaches when taken too often. If treatments are ineffective, a physician can prescribe stronger drugs, such as triptans, anti-nausea medications and antidepressants.