Evidence supporting the use of: Acetylsalicylic acid
For the health condition: Headache (cluster)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is a well-known nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used for the treatment of various types of pain, including headaches. However, its evidence base specifically for cluster headache is limited. Cluster headaches are considered one of the most severe primary headache disorders, typically requiring rapid-acting abortive therapies such as subcutaneous sumatriptan or high-flow oxygen. Aspirin is not considered a first-line or effective abortive agent for cluster headache attacks in current clinical guidelines.

Some historical case reports and older studies have examined aspirin's role in acute management of cluster headaches, but results are inconsistent, and the quality of evidence is low. In contrast, aspirin is more established for other headache types such as migraine and tension-type headache, where its efficacy is better supported. Current systematic reviews and clinical guidelines (e.g., American Headache Society, European Headache Federation) do not recommend acetylsalicylic acid as a primary treatment for cluster headache due to insufficient efficacy demonstrated in controlled trials.

In summary, while aspirin's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for some headache types, its use in cluster headache is supported by limited scientific evidence, and it is not recommended as a standard treatment. The evidence rating reflects this limited support.

More about Acetylsalicylic acid
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Other ingredients used for Headache (cluster)

feverfew
ginger
magnesium
vitamin D
Acetylsalicylic acid

Products containing Acetylsalicylic acid

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