Table 11 Analgesics for episodic tension-type headache

Ibuprofen 400–800 mg

• For adults, and

• Drug of choice for children (200–400 mg according to age and weight)

Acetylsalicylic acid 600–1000 mg

• Adults only

Either of these in combination with paracetamol 1000 mg

• Formal evidence is lacking, but the different mechanisms of action may enhance effect

Any of these in combination with caffeine

• Commonly included in analgesic combination-medications

Paracetamol 1000 mg

• On its own has lower efficacy

• Therefore reserved for those in whom NSAIDS are contraindicated