Most people who suffer from migraines or similar types of pain often wonder about the effects of coffee for headaches. Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world and has long been considered a possible remedy for headaches. Its effectiveness, however, is not just based on popular belief but is actually backed by scientific studies that have analysed the role of caffeine in pain modulation. Let’s take a closer look at how coffee can influence headaches, with reference to clinical data and medical-scientific guidance.
Caffeine as the active ingredient in coffee for headaches
The main active compound in coffee is caffeine, a substance belonging to the purine alkaloid class. From a pharmacological perspective, caffeine acts as a competitive antagonist of adenosine receptors, a molecule involved in sleep regulation and the dilation of cerebral blood vessels. When adenosine binds to its receptors, it induces vasodilation and a feeling of drowsiness. Caffeine, by blocking these receptors, causes vasoconstriction, meaning the narrowing of blood vessels in the brain—a mechanism that can help relieve certain types of headache, particularly migraines and tension-type headaches.
Coffee and headaches: what the research says
Numerous studies have explored the effect of caffeine on migraine pain. A review published in The Journal of Headache and Pain (2017) highlighted that the combination of caffeine with over-the-counter painkillers (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen) can significantly enhance the effectiveness of treatment by reducing the duration and intensity of episodic headaches. This synergistic effect is attributed to caffeine’s ability to increase the absorption and bioavailability of pain medications, as well as its own contribution to pain relief.
Another study published in Cephalalgia (the journal of the International Headache Society) found that a moderate dose of caffeine (around 100–130 mg, equivalent to an cup of espresso) can significantly reduce the symptoms of migraine in its early stages. However, it’s important to note that these benefits were mainly observed in individuals who do not consume high amounts of caffeine on a regular basis.
The paradoxical effect: when coffee makes headaches worse
While coffee can help relieve pain, excessive consumption or the sudden withdrawal of caffeine intake can actually trigger headaches. According to some studies, the so-called “caffeine rebound headache” is a common phenomenon among individuals who consume large amounts of coffee over long periods and then suddenly stop.
This type of headache is caused by compensatory vasodilation of cerebral vessels after caffeine withdrawal. In addition, regular intake exceeding 400 mg per day (roughly equivalent to 4–5 cups of coffee) can make the central nervous system more sensitive to pain, potentially leading to chronic headaches.
The quality of your coffee blend should not be overlooked. The better the coffee beans, the more the organoleptic properties of the drink are preserved.
Does coffee relieve headaches? Recommended dosages
The use of coffee as an aid in headache treatment should always be considered in relation to the individual’s specific profile. Experts recommend not exceeding 200 mg of caffeine per day to minimise the risk of side effects in more vulnerable individuals.
For those who suffer from frequent headaches, it’s important to maintain a consistent and moderate caffeine intake over time, avoiding both excess and sudden withdrawal. In some cases, neurologists recommend limiting intake to 1–2 espresso shots per day, and advise against using coffee as the sole remedy—rather, it should be paired with appropriate medication. As always, it is best to consult your GP for personalised advice, especially in cases of recurring or chronic headaches.