What acute treatment options are recommended for a patient experiencing a cluster headache attack in primary care?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Offer oxygen and/or a subcutaneous or nasal triptan for the acute treatment of cluster headache in primary care .

Use 100% oxygen at a flow rate of at least 12 litres per minute with a non-rebreathing mask and a reservoir bag, and arrange provision of home and ambulatory oxygen .

Ensure the person is offered an adequate supply of triptans calculated according to their history of cluster bouts, based on the manufacturer's maximum daily dose .

Do not offer paracetamol, NSAIDs, opioids, ergots or oral triptans for the acute treatment of cluster headache .

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