Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best migraine medication?

The best migraine medication depends on the type and frequency of your migraines. For many people, triptans are an effective migraine treatment, working to relieve pain and other symptoms once a migraine has started. A SwiftDoctor clinician will confirm whether this is a suitable migraine medicine for you.

What migraine tablets does SwiftDoctor prescribe?

SwiftDoctor currently prescribes Sumatriptan, a widely used triptan for acute migraine relief. Migraine tablets like this are taken as soon as symptoms start, and work by targeting the blood vessel changes and pain pathways involved in a migraine attack.

How quickly does migraine medicine work?

Many people notice relief from migraine treatments such as sumatriptan within 30–60 minutes, though this varies from person to person. Taking your migraine medication as early as possible after symptoms begin generally gives the best results.

How often can I take migraine tablets?

Migraine tablets should be taken as directed by your prescriber, and it's important not to exceed the recommended frequency as overusing acute migraine medicine can lead to medication-overuse headaches. If you find you need migraine relief more than a couple of times a week, speak to your SwiftDoctor clinician about preventative options.

What's the difference between over-the-counter and prescription migraine treatment?

Over-the-counter painkillers can help with mild migraine headaches, but many people find they aren't enough once a migraine is established. Prescription migraine medication such as Sumatriptan works differently, targeting the underlying mechanisms of a migraine rather than general pain relief, and is often more effective for moderate to severe attacks.

When should I see a doctor urgently about a migraine?

Seek urgent medical attention for a sudden, severe headache unlike any you've had before, or if a headache is accompanied by confusion, slurred speech, weakness, vision loss, or a stiff neck and fever. These can indicate a more serious underlying condition and need immediate assessment rather than self-treatment.

How it works

Throughout your treatment, the SwiftDoctor clinical team is available to support you, answer questions, and review your progress.

  • Step 1

    Create your account

    Create your free account to access our GP-led healthcare services. Your details are securely stored so you can manage prescriptions, place future orders more quickly, and access ongoing clinical support whenever you need it.

  • Step 2

    Complete your health questionnaire online in around five minutes

    Answer a few straightforward questions about your health history, lifestyle and goals from the comfort of your own home. Add your chosen medication to your basket and complete your payment. Most patients finish in around five minutes.

  • Step 3

    A UK-registered clinician reviews your responses

    A UK-registered clinician carefully reviews your assessment to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate for you. Your health is never treated as a formality.

  • Step 4

    If eligible, your prescription is issued

    If you meet the clinical criteria, your prescription is approved and prepared without delay. No waiting rooms, no repeat appointments — just a straightforward, clinician-led process.

  • Step 5

    Your medication is dispatched in discreet, temperature-controlled packaging

    Your medication is packed securely in plain, temperature-controlled packaging and delivered directly to your chosen address, protecting both your privacy and the integrity of your treatment.

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