Nausea deserves a place in the attack plan
NICE recommends considering an antiemetic alongside acute migraine treatment, even when nausea and vomiting are absent. The choice depends on the person, age, other medicines and contraindications. An over-the-counter supplement is not automatically an equivalent alternative. [1]
Vomiting can change the useful route
NICE includes nonoral metoclopramide or prochlorperazine when oral acute treatments are ineffective or not tolerated, with other nonoral acute treatments considered when appropriate. A prescriber should choose the preparation and explain risks; these are not interchangeable home dosing instructions. [1]
Ginger research is not one result for every cause of nausea
NCCIH distinguishes pregnancy-related nausea, motion sickness, postoperative nausea and chemotherapy-related symptoms. Most studies examined supplements rather than foods. That evidence cannot by itself establish that a homemade ginger tea stops migraine nausea. [2]
Know when the headache needs urgent assessment
A suddenly starting, extremely painful headache, new weakness, confusion, seizure or major visual symptoms needs emergency assessment. An attack lasting longer than 72 hours warrants urgent medical advice under NHS guidance. Do not assume a changed pattern is simply the usual migraine. [3]
Plan before the next severe episode
Imagine vomiting repeatedly prevents use of the usual tablets. Discuss a nonoral rescue plan and an antiemetic with the treating clinician before another attack, rather than repeatedly taking extra tablets whose absorption is uncertain. [1]
| Situation | Next consideration |
|---|---|
| Nausea during attacks | Discuss an antiemetic |
| Oral treatment not tolerated | Review route of treatment |
| Sudden severe new headache | Emergency assessment |
Sources for this article
- Recommendations | Headaches in over 12s: diagnosis and management | Guidance | NICE
Source consulted: 2026-09-20. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product. - Ginger: Usefulness and Safety | NCCIH
Source consulted: 2026-09-20. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product. - Migraine - NHS
Source consulted: 2026-09-20. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product.