What is the best type of medication prescribed for headaches and pain for a brain tumor patient?

Whatever works: During the acute phase with severe swelling of the brain usually steroids such as Decadron (dexamethasone) are used. As the process evolves it is important to provide comfort and relief from pain. Narcotics may be appropriate, but may cause seizure activity and addiction. Seizure medications may be necessary and may help with migraine symptoms as well. Often benzodiazepines help with sedation and anxiety.

Two types: Relieving pain in a patient with a brain tumor should involve two different approaches: treatment of the tumor or of related swelling, as with steroids, to decrease pressure inside the head; and pain medication (analgesics) from tylenol (acetaminophen) on the low end to morphine at the top. Each patient is individual.