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N NERVOUS SYSTEMN02 ANALGESICS
This group comprises general analgesics and antipyretics.
All salicylic acid derivatives except combinations with corticosteroids (M01B) or opioids (N02AJ) are classified in N02BA - Salicylic acid and derivatives, as it is difficult to differentiate between the use of salicylates in rheumatic conditions and other therapeutic uses of salicylates.
All plain ibuprofen preparations are classified in M01A, even if they are only intended for use as pain relief.
There are a number of combined preparations, which contain analgesics and psycholeptics. These are classified in N02, as pain relief must be regarded as the main indication. Analgesics used for specific indications are classified in the respective ATC groups. E.g.:
A03D/
A03EA- Antispasmodic/psycholeptics/analgesic combinations
M01 - Antiinflammatory and antirheumatic products
M02A - Topical products for joint and muscular pain
M03 - Muscle relaxants
See comments to these groups.
Lidocaine indicated for postherpetic pain is classified in N01BB.
N02C ANTIMIGRAINE PREPARATIONS
This group comprises preparations specifically used in the prophylaxis and treatment of migraine. Analgesics, see N02A and N02B.
Beta blocking agents, see C07.
Antivertigo preparations, see N07.
Cyproheptadine, see R06A - Antihistamines for systemic use.
Tolfenamic acid, see M01AG - Fenamates.
Indometacin in combination with prochlorperazine and caffeine is classified in M01AB51 - Indometacin, combinations.
Botulinum toxin used in the prophylactic treatment of migraine is classified in M03AX01.
N02CA Ergot alkaloids
Ergot alkaloids for gynecological use, see G02A and G02CB.
See also C04AE - Ergot alkaloids.
Dihydroergotamine, which is also used in the treatment of hypotension, is classified in this group.
Combinations of dihydroergotamine and etilefrine are classified in C01CA.
The DDD for ergotamine is based on the treatment of acute migraine attacks, whereas the DDDs for dihydroergotamine and methysergide are based on prophylaxis. The DDD for dihydroergotamine nasal spray is based on the treatment of acute migraine attacks. |
N02CB Corticosteroid derivatives
| The DDDs for corticosteroid derivatives are based on prophylaxis of migraine. |
N02CC Selective serotonin (5HT1) agonists
| The DDDs for the selective serotonin (5HT1) agonists are based on the recommended initial dose in acute attacks of migraine. |
N02CD Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists
| The DDDs for the CGRP antagonists are based on the prophylaxis of migraine. |
N02CX Other antimigraine preparations
This group comprises antimigraine preparations, which cannot be classified in the preceding groups.
Clonidine low strength tablets (e.g. 25 mcg) are classified here, even if the indication also may be "opioid withdrawal symptoms".
| The DDDs for the substances in this group are based on the prophylaxis of migraine. |
Last updated: 2024-01-26