The list of concussion medications to avoid isn’t extensive, but it’s long enough to be a topic for discussion.
Concussions are considered a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur after a blow to the head or violent shaking of the brain. While most concussions are mild, properly managing them is essential to ensure a full recovery.
Medications can play a role in symptom management, but certain drugs can exacerbate the condition or hinder healing. Understanding which concussion medications to avoid is crucial for safe and effective treatment.
In this article, we’ll explore medications that may interfere with concussion recovery, which ones to avoid, and provide safer alternatives for managing symptoms.
*Note: You should always consult with your medical provider before changing your medications and implementing changes in your healthcare routine. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.
What Is a Concussion and Why Do Medications Matter?
A concussion disrupts normal brain function, often causing symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. In some cases, these post-concussion symptoms can persist for weeks or even months. While a majority of concussions will heal on their own, chronic post-concussion symptoms often present a problem.
There are no specific prescription drugs for treating concussions, but people often use medications to manage symptoms. And while this may seem like a good idea, it can also have negative consequences.
Some medications can:
- Mask symptoms, which can delay a diagnosis.
- Worsen cognitive impairment.
- Increase the risk of secondary complications, such as bleeding or prolonged recovery.
Being informed about concussion medications to avoid helps protect the brain during its critical healing phase.
1. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Examples: Ibuprofen (Advil), Naproxen (Aleve), Aspirin
NSAIDs aren’t the number 1 concussion medications to avoid, but they’re easily accessible and often a first line of defense in the earliest moments after a concussion. NSAIDs are commonly used for relieving pain and inflammation but are usually discouraged immediately after a concussion. These medications have the potential to increase the risk of intracranial bleeding, especially if the concussion resulted from a traumatic injury like a fall or car accident.
Why to Avoid:
- Thinner blood can exacerbate internal bleeding, especially within 24-72 hours of an injury.
- It may impair platelet function, which is critical for clotting.
Safer Alternative: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is typically recommended for pain relief in concussion patients as it does not affect blood clotting.
2. Sedatives and Sleeping Pills
Examples: Benzodiazepines (Valium, Ativan), Zolpidem (Ambien)
While concussions often cause sleep disturbances, sedatives and sleeping pills are not ideal for managing these issues. These drugs can slow brain activity, impair memory, and make it challenging to assess symptoms accurately. They can also alter sleep patterns and interfere with normal brain functions during sleep.
Why to Avoid:
- Risk of increased cognitive fog, especially in the morning upon waking.
- Potential for dependency.
- Disrupts the natural sleep-wake cycle crucial for brain recovery.
Safer Alternative: Sleep hygiene techniques, melatonin and magnesium supplements, and natural remedies can support better sleep without interfering with recovery. Eliminating screen time 60-90 minutes before bed and keeping your room cool can enhance sleep quality. We also suggest stopping eating or drinking within 2-3 hours before bed to help you fall asleep faster.
3. Narcotic Pain Relievers
Examples: Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Codeine
Of all the concussion medications to avoid, opioids are at the top of the list. It is very rare for a provider to prescribe opioid pain medications for concussion-related headaches. They carry a high risk of dependency and can worsen dizziness, sedation, and mental fog, which are already common concussion symptoms.
Why to Avoid:
- Potential for addiction.
- It can exacerbate sedation and cognitive issues.
- Often masks symptoms that could indicate worsening conditions.
Safer Alternative: For head pain, consider non-narcotic options such as ice packs, rest, and low-dose Tylenol (Acetaminophen). Mecalzine can also be a good option for dizziness and nausea if needed. Even better than medications, sleep, rest, and adequate nutrition can play a prominent role in recovery.
4. Alcohol
While not a medication, alcohol interacts negatively with concussion recovery. Alcohol can also delay healing and recovery, further promoting symptoms. It can even amplify post-concussion symptoms like dizziness, impair cognitive judgment, and slow down brain healing overall. Alcohol is also often a reason for head injuries, which further amplifies its effects on the brain and body.
Why to Avoid:
- Increases risk of falls and further injury.
- It slows the body’s ability to repair brain tissue.
- Alcohol can mask persistent symptoms and impair sleep.
Safer Alternative: To support recovery, it’s best to hydrate with water or electrolyte drinks. Avoiding any and all toxins during the concussion recovery process will yield dividends down the road.
5. Antidepressants
Examples: SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), such as Prozac and Zoloft, and TCAs (Tricyclic Antidepressants), like Amitriptyline, require second thoughts after a concussion. Depression and mood changes can arise after a concussion, and antidepressants may seem like an appropriate solution. However, some antidepressants can cause drowsiness, worsen cognitive issues, or increase the risk of falls due to dizziness.
Take note that if you’re taking these medications before your concussion, you should consult with your medical provider. It’s most likely safe to continue their use following a head injury. The biggest problem lies in starting these medications after a concussion.
Why to Avoid:
- Delayed reaction times.
- Impaired balance and coordination.
- Masking of underlying symptoms which may provide evidence for further treatments.
Safer Alternative: Counseling or therapy, mindfulness techniques, and careful emotional health monitoring are ideal care routes during the early stages of recovery. Medications may be introduced under strict medical supervision and diagnostic workups if symptoms persist.
6. Stimulants
Examples: Adderall, Ritalin
Of all the concussion medications to avoid, stimulants may seem counterintuitive to avoid, especially in the early days of an injury. Stimulants increase brain activity and are primarily used to manage attention deficit disorders. After a concussion, this heightened brain activity and stimulation may delay healing and potentially exacerbate fatigue.
Why to Avoid:
- Stimulants may interfere with the brain’s natural repair process.
- It can worsen headaches or anxiety.
Safer Alternative: Rest and gradual cognitive rehabilitation are preferred to rebuild focus and attention without overstimulating the brain. Once again, if you take these before your injury, it’s best to consult your medical provider about taking it after.
7. Anti-Seizure Medications
Examples: Phenytoin, Carbamazepine
Doctors occasionally prescribe these medications for severe concussions with post-traumatic seizures. While that may be appropriate for some, these are specific concussion medications to avoid for a majority of people who aren’t dealing with seizures. They are not suitable for general concussion recovery and may cause side effects like dizziness, confusion, or fatigue.
Why to Avoid:
- Alters normal brain signaling.
- It can exacerbate neurological symptoms.
Safer Alternative: We suggest only using these anti-seizure medications if prescribed by a neurologist or medical provider following a seizure after a concussion.
8. Caffeine-Containing Medications
Examples: Over-the-counter headache relief drugs with caffeine are readily available, but you must proceed cautiously. While caffeine can help manage mild headaches, excessive use can cause jitteriness, insomnia, and rebound headaches. Caffeine also creates vascular changes in the brain, constricting blood flow. These effects are counterproductive to concussion recovery, where rest and adequate blood flow are critical.
Caffeine is also commonly found in your standard energy drinks and workout powders, so read the labels before consuming them.
Why to Avoid:
- Has the potential to overstimulate the brain.
- Causes negative changes in blood flow, which is altered following a head injury.
- It can disrupt sleep cycles, even when taken appropriately.
Alternative: Mild caffeine intake through natural sources like tea can be acceptable, but proper hydration and rest remain priorities.
9. Herbal Supplements and Over-the-Counter Remedies
Examples: Ginkgo Biloba, St. John’s Wort
Certain supplements marketed for brain health or anxiety relief can interfere with prescribed treatments or exacerbate symptoms. For instance, Ginkgo Biloba can increase bleeding risks. St. John’s Wort also has its potential downsides, as it can increase serotonin production. If you’re already taking an SSRI, St. John’s Wort supplementation could potentially cause a deadly version of serotonin syndrome.
Why to Avoid:
- Lack of FDA regulation and standardization.
- Side effects, such as dizziness or nausea, may occur.
- Disruption of necessary brain healing processes and emotional circuitry.
Safer Alternative: Consult your healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your routine. Low-grade physical exercise is a phenomenal way to optimize physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s best to use this to your advantage following a concussion, as it’s tied to healing all symptoms.
10. ADHD Medications
Examples: Methylphenidate (Concerta), Amphetamines (Adderall)
These medications stimulate brain activity, potentially hindering the brain’s recovery process. They’re explicitly modulating neurotransmitters in the frontal lobe, which could inherently become altered after a concussion. Additionally, they can intensify anxiety, headaches, and other symptoms of concussion.
Why to Avoid:
- Delays natural healing processes.
- This may amplify side effects like irritability and restlessness.
- It can create an imbalance in neurotransmitter concentrations, which may hinder brain function, specifically in the early to mid stages of a concussion.
Safer Alternative: Use structured rest periods and cognitive therapy to rebuild attention naturally. Prioritizing sleep and getting appropriate low-grade exercise, especially in the early days of a concussion, will provide most of the healing benefits for brain health.
Signs of Adverse Reactions to Concussion Medications to Avoid
Even medications that seem safe can occasionally cause unexpected side effects. Watch for the following signs:
- Worsening headaches.
- Increased confusion or memory problems.
- Persistent dizziness or balance issues.
- Changes in gut function or digestion.
- Altered speech or facial expression.
If these symptoms occur, contact a healthcare professional immediately or call 911.
How to Safely Manage Concussion Symptoms
- Rest and Recovery: Rest is needed to allow the brain adequate time to heal and recover. Sleep is therapeutic for so many neurological processes, which is why it’s essential for concussion treatment
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to combat cognitive fatigue and headaches. Don’t forget to utilize electrolytes to optimize brain function.
- Gradual Return to Activity: You may slowly resume physical and cognitive activities under medical supervision. As we’ve suggested, it’s best to use the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test to determine your cardiovascular rates and limits for training.
- Symptom Monitoring: It’s best to track and report any changes to your doctor as you rest and recover. We suggest writing down these changes, which are easy to forget, especially after a concussion.
- Consult with Functional Neurologists and Trained Specialists for Care: If you want to accelerate your healing and recovery, we suggest searching for functional neurologists or sports medicine doctors. They will provide personalized therapies and treatments to optimize your healing and prevent long-term symptoms.
FAQs on Concussion Medications to Avoid
1. Can I take Aspirin for concussion headaches?
If possible, avoid taking Aspirin due to its blood-thinning properties, which increase the risk of intracranial bleeding. We suggest Tylenol for aches and pain relief, but only once you complete the acute phases of recovery.
2. Are there any natural remedies to help manage concussion symptoms?
Yes, natural remedies like proper hydration (with electrolytes), rest, and mindfulness practices can be effective. Low-grade cardiovascular exercise, when utilizing the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Treatment protocol, is also suggested. Always consult your doctor before trying new treatments.
3. Is it safe to take melatonin after a concussion?
Melatonin can help regulate sleep without the sedative effects of sleeping pills, but it doesn’t work for everyone. To maximize sleep, we suggest using magnesium threonate, electrolytes, and healthy sleep habits. Once again, consult your healthcare provider for appropriate dosing.
4. How long should I avoid these medications after a concussion?
Avoidance typically lasts until symptoms subside and your doctor confirms it is safe to resume regular medications. As we’ve stated, it is best to speak to your provider before changing or starting any new medications.
5. Are herbal teas safe during concussion recovery?
Most herbal teas are safe, but avoid those with stimulating ingredients like ginseng and caffeine. Caffeine use can be an option over time, but only once low-grade cardiovascular exercises have started to optimize blood flow.
6. What should I do if I’ve already taken one of these medications?
As we’ve stated, if you were taking these medications before your injury, there may be other factors to consider. Contact your doctor to discuss your symptoms and ensure no complications arise.
You Don’t Need Medications for Adequate Healing
Navigating recovery after a concussion requires careful attention to both symptoms and treatment options. And luckily for you, there are many ways to find care and treatment for concussion symptoms.
Avoiding harmful medications is vital to ensuring a safe and speedy recovery. It’s also why we don’t use medications to treat patients in our office.
At The Neural Connection, we’re leaders in treating and rehabilitating concussions and brain injuries. We’ve collectively spent the last 25+ years in clinical practice working with patients who have seen other doctors but are still looking for answers…
If you’re still looking for answers to your health questions, click the link below to get scheduled today!
*Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Patients are advised to consult their medical provider or primary care physician before trying any remedies or therapies at home.
