Do You Find It Hard to Tell Your Doctor That Your Migraine Medication Isn't Working?

Medically Reviewed by Poonam Sachdev, MD on November 08, 2021

Some patients don't feel comfortable telling their doctors that a prescribed migraine medication isn't working — it'd be like questioning an authoritative opinion. You shouldn't feel intimidated about this, though. 

Here are a few tips to consider ahead of your next doctor visit:

  • Bring a list of migraine medicine-related issues or symptoms. Bring a list of issues or symptoms you've experienced since you've been on the medication to your next doctor's appointment. You can also bring along your migraine diary — if you keep one — and read specific entries that describe what you're experiencing.
  • Be truthful and ask questions. Tell the doctor that the medication they prescribed hasn't worked — this is important information that can get you the effective treatment you need to treat your migraines. Ask whether other treatment options, like neuromodulation, for example, might be better.
  • Work together.­ Be willing to try your doctor's prescribed directions. Doing so will help your doctor reach a more accurate diagnosis to treat your migraines.

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