Abortive medications (also known as rescue medications) are used to stop an active headache, meaning you are experiencing the headache right now. Abortive medications are most effective when taken early on in the headache. Some abortive medications can be bought over the counter, but more potent and effective medications are usually only available by prescription. The choice of abortive medication depends on several factors, including your overall health, frequency of headaches, duration of headaches, and tolerance of medication side effects. It’s important to note that there are non-medication-based treatments to help relieve migraine attacks.