What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Headache from Opioid-Withdrawal

What is Opioid-Withdrawal Headache? (Definition/Background Information)

• Opioid-Withdrawal Headache is described as a form of headache attributed to substance withdrawal that occurs from stoppage of opioid drugs.
• This type of a headache falls in a category of headaches that are attributed to substance withdrawal. Such substances may be prescribed medications, unprescribed use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications, or use of nicotine, alcohol, etc.
• Opiates (opioids) are a category of drugs prescribed to treat pain. Opioid drugs reduce the amount of pain signals that are sent to the brain and alters the brain’s response to pain. A few examples include codeine, morphine, and heroin
• By definition, Opioid-Withdrawal Headache has to occur within a day of last opioid intake; a daily use of opioid medications for a period of 3 months has to be demonstrated. The condition is known to resolve spontaneously within a week of total opioid withdrawal

The criteria for diagnosis of Opioid-Withdrawal Headache as outlined by the International Headache Society (IHS) is given below:

• Opioid intake daily for over 3 months, which has been interrupted
• Headache fulfilling the criteria below
• Evidence of causation demonstrated by both of the following:
  • Headache has developed within 24 hours after last opioid intake
  • Headache has resolved within 7 days after total opioid withdrawal
• Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis

(Source: International Headache Society Classification ICHD-3, London, United Kingdom)