Recent Articles

Do products that claim to stop snoring actually work?

Flowers, chocolates, organ donation — are you in?

Chair yoga: Benefits of a mind-body practice without the risk of falling

Need a prescription for an ED medication? What to know about BlueChew, hims, Roman, and other online ED medication retailers

Low-carb foods: Nutritious choices for creating a sustainable diet that's lower in carbohydrates

Pilates: A good option for older adults?

A muscle-building obsession in boys: What to know and do

Calcium-rich foods: How to boost your intake of this important mineral

DNR: What is a do-not-resuscitate order?

Sleep hygiene: Simple practices for better rest

Diseases & Conditions

Headaches from headache medication?

December 1, 2012

Q.I have a long history of tension headaches and usually get relief by taking acetaminophen. Lately, the medication relieves the headache, but then the pain returns later in the day. Can acetaminophen lose its effectiveness, or could it be something else?

Your headache fits the description of a medication overuse headache (MOH). In this case, the pain is caused by the very medications taken to relieve the pain. Medications most commonly associated with MOH are opioid pain relievers (such as codeine and oxycodone) and medications containing the barbiturate butalbital (such as Fioricet). Acetaminophen and ibuprofen have also been linked to MOH.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

Research health conditions
Check your symptoms
Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
Find the best treatments and procedures for you
Explore options for better nutrition and exercise

Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Share This Page

Print This Page

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.