Can antipyretic analgesics relieve neuralgic headaches?

Generally, if it is mild to moderate neurogenic headache, antipyretic analgesics can usually provide relief. However, if it is severe neurogenic headache, antipyretic analgesics typically cannot alleviate the symptoms effectively. Detailed explanation is as follows:

Antipyretic analgesics primarily work by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins and other substances that increase pain sensitivity to mechanical or chemical stimuli. These medications belong to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting cyclooxygenase activity and subsequently decreasing prostaglandin production. In cases of mild to moderate neurogenic headache, these drugs can suppress local inflammatory responses, reduce inflammatory irritation around the nerves, and raise the pain threshold, thereby decreasing the patient's sensitivity to pain and alleviating headache symptoms.

If the neurogenic headache is severe, especially when caused by significant nerve lesions or nerve compression, the use of antipyretic analgesics alone may not be effective. For example, in neurogenic headaches caused by trigeminal neuralgia, the pain can be extremely intense, and antipyretic analgesics may not adequately control the discomfort. In such cases, specific medications for neuropathic pain, such as carbamazepine tablets, oxcarbazepine tablets, or gabapentin capsules, are usually required.

When using antipyretic analgesics, patients should follow medical advice, be aware of potential side effects and contraindications, and ensure safe medication use.