What’s Your Secret to Opening Migraine Medications?

By Holly Harding

1 min read

In this What’s Your Secret video, Holly explores the frustrating challenge of trying to open migraine rescue medication packaging. There are many varying types of rescue medications out there and for some reason, many of them are placed in packaging that is so secure that tools are required for access. Why is this the case?

Have any tips and tricks to help?

Please share your tales of frustration or your tricks of the trade as to how you’ve gotten around these hard-to-open packages so that we can connect and learn from one another!

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Migraine.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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tlovell Member
When I get a new prescription that is in one of the tough to open packages, I will cut all of the pills out with scissors, and put them in an old pill bottle.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Good for you for being proactive, Teresa. Some of our facebook commenters have said that they request their pharmacist put the pills into a bottle for them. I didn't realize this could be done (and I'm not certain all pharmacists would do so). But if they complied, it would certainly help an awful lot! Thanks for chiming in! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
maddieg Member
I have no problem opening them except when I need them. Mostly cause I cannot see the little peel tab with a migraine. I usually pre-start the peel tab that you pull off to expose the foil that you push it thru, and then I put those packets in a bottle. I don’t like to fully open them and have them loose in a bottle because the little labeled packets are handy to keep one in my desk at work, one in my purse, etc. I have a hard time remembering what they look like and I don’t want to carry 5 different bottles so having a little pillbox with the labeled packets inside for on the go was best. Not that we are “on the go” much anymore.
1. CrystalHarper Community Admin
 Maddie, It certainly seems silly that these companies would design packaging for migraine medicine that is so hard to open while having a migraine! That's great that you are so proactive about peeling back the packaging ahead of time to help alleviate that problem and it's such a great idea to keep your meds in a pillbox for easy access. Thanks for sharing! Kindly, Crystal (Migraine.com team)
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 MaddieG- I do the same thing! I have a pillbox that I take with me to help manage all of the various medications, and I label them so I know what's what. We had a discussion on facebook this morning where a community member mentioned that she got pulled over by the police and they didn't take kindly to the fact that she had medications that weren't in their original bottles. I hadn't thought of that downside of storing them in such a way. Perhaps we could keep a cut out of the original prescription in an envelope in our purses as well in case such a thing ever happened? So many things to consider. Thanks for joining the conversation! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
mrs-doyle Member
Short answer: I use a key or pen to poke a way in if the peel-back fails. I keep mine in their blisters until I need them. Long answer: I pre-cut them into strips (the perforations are a joke) and fold over the little corners where they are designed to peel open so my clumsy fingers have a head start. Because of brain fog I need the strips cut with my maximum 24 hr dosage else I might forget I took one or both (app called Round has helped with this greatly, I used to write the time/date I took it on the blister or post-it). I keep the strips in the box for home and one 24hr allotment goes in my wallet; they fit best this way and can easily find them. I have used my keys or a pen when I am on the go to poke an opening to the packs if my peel-back fails (If I’m away from home I will have keys) I have a small container I use for the non-Rx meds with a folded tissue on top to keep them from jostling about. My to-go kit is in a pencil pouch with ear plugs, earbuds, eye mask, meds, sunglasses, peppermint tea bags and candy, ginger candy, electrolyte packet, essential oil inhaler, pen and paper, etc. I’ve used the pen to poke through packaging, too and paper handy to write down times I will forget with brain fog (before app). I also have fun with panic attacks, so my to-go kit is always with me for one or the other. Air, light, moisture can all breakdown medications; typically not significantly when at home in a cupboard and bottle made to protect medications from this, but when jiggling about in your bag when your are on the go, and if in there for a while, meds can breakdown.
1. CrystalHarper Community Admin
 Mrs. Doyle, Thanks so much for sharing your helpful tips with us! It sounds like you have a great routine figured out and are always prepared. I also love the pencil case idea! That is such a clever way to keep your essentials handy and easily accessible. Thanks again for sharing and I hope you have a low pain weekend ahead! Kindly, Crystal (Migraine.com team member)
Melissa Arnold Community Admin
Another vote for the separate container -- I either use a (cleaned) old pill bottle or, if the meds are the right size, a tiny travel pill bottle on a keychain. Fits in my wallet. No drama. I think the issue of medication packaging is so universal and needs to be addressed. How often do we all hear stories of folks with arthritic hands, motor skill issues or grip problems who can't get even standard pill bottles open? There's got to be a better solution -- for all of us! -Melissa, <a href='http://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
erinrudat Member
When I'm in the midst of a migraine, the last thing I want to deal with (or can even physically accomplish) is trying to open these stupid little pods. I usually remove all the pills from these pods and put them in another pill bottle. It's always a pain, but at least they're available when I need one.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Thanks for sharing your strategy with us, erinrudat- it sounds like this is more of a universal issue that I realized when I initially recorded this video. While I'm glad I'm not alone, I hate that we're all out there struggling with such a stupid task while we're in pain! Thanks for chiming in! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team)
pacoddin Member
I am so glad you spoke about this. I get so angry trying to get into the medicine when I am in so much pain and brain fog!! I usually do what you suggested. I open a bunch of them and put them in an empty pill bottle.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Pacoddin- It's good to know we are not alone in this, however- how crazy is this that there are so many of us out there struggling with this same insane issue?!?! There's got to be a solution from the top on this. I plan to talk to my pharmacist next time I go in about who to call as I would hope adding my voice to the chorus of those complaining might help. Such an unnecessary waste of our time and energy! Thanks for chiming in! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
lindas68 Member
The drug companies make those blister packs impossible to open in order for them to be as "childproof" as possible. Unfortunately, that also makes it nearly impossible for an adult to get into them either. I end up using a pair of scissors if I'm home, or a pen or other pointy object if I'm out to break through the foil backing. Some pharmacies will remove the pills and put them in a regular bottle if you request it politely in advance.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 I will be asking my pharmacist (very politely) to do this on my behalf! I also plan to call these drug companies as this packaging seems just over the top. Why is this stuff under lock and key when narcotics are dispensed in normal bottles? Your comment about childproofing making items adultproof had me chuckling as I was thinking about when we childproofed our home for our toddlers and we were then barely able to function ourselves for a couple of years! Thanks for sharing- Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
kikkycat Member
Thank you!!!!! I have actually written to the drug manufacturer to complain about how impossible the packaging is!! Like most, I have spent the time when I have a good day opening up all the blister packs and putting the pills in a prescription bottle. A hint about prescription bottles IF NO CHILDREN WILL BE NEAR: turn the lid of the bottle over and screw it back on. It’ll say NO on the lid to indicate it’s not childproof. Then it’s an easier simple twist to open it. If I’m at home, I have a tiny pair of scissors I use, and they’re usually near me as I knit a lot. A pair of embroidery scissors with blades less than 3” can even fly on an airplane with you. I have also used the edge of one pill packet to loosen the corner of the other one.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 kikkycat- I really appreciate your point about taking your well time to deal with this. Thank you for writing manufacturers to try to make a change on this front! This whole thing is so uncalled for and it sounds, from the comment section here, that this is a common issue for many of us. Thanks, too, for sharing your strategies for easing access to these meds. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
2. kateymac Member
 <inline-mention username="kikkycat" user-id="3789793"/> - re: the bottle caps. At some point along the way, I asked that the pharmacy put easier caps on all of my prescriptions - the ones you can flip right off.) I had heard that was an option for the “elderly.” So it’s in their computer, and that’s much easier. ONE problem solved, anyway. -Kate 🌷
junebug1964 Member
I cheat. I open them and put a few in a pill box which I put in my purse.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 This is not cheating! It's a great proactive idea, junebug1964! Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
vickieleigh Member
While I am glad I am not the only one, I am sad that so many of us have this same struggle. Sometimes when I am with my husband I hand the package to him, he is much more adept at opening them than I am.
1. Rebecca C Moderator
 <inline-mention username="vickieleigh" user-id="3825449"/> Oh Yes - My husband is handed any pill bottles as well as pickle jars, jams, etc. He is my handy MAN!! Thanks for sharing who helps you in tight situations ~ Rebecca (comm advc Migraine.com)
vickieleigh Member
I forgot to mention in my post that when I have taken the pills out of their packaging and put them in another bottle because I am traveling or away from home I make sure to keep a copy of the prescription with me so if there is ever an issue concerning what I am carrying I have information handy. Just being on the safe side.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Very smart, VickieLeigh- we have to be prepared for anything- and some of our community members have shared horror stories about having unlabeled meds taken away because of not having proper documentation while traveling. We sure have to do a lot of planning as migraineurs, don't we? Nice that your husband is handy, as well! Thanks for sharing. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
kend36 Member
The blister packs are so that the medicine stays air tight. If you take them out of the packaging, moisture can make the meds go bad. That is why they are individually wrapped. On the printed side, there is usually an arrow or "Peel here". On that corner, bend the corner up and down about 10 times. This should separate the paper layer from the foil. Peel the paper off. The tablet will be visible OR the tablet is meant to be pushed through the side that the paper was just removed from.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi kend36- Interesting about the air being the issue with these meds. And yes- some of the blister packs do take a number of back and forths before you can access the "peel here' arrow more easily. Unfortunately others are not so easy, and come apart in many pieces. It depends on the manufacturer- as you can see from the comment section and the many community members who are struggling with this. Thanks for chiming in! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team)
nsanders Member
I keep my migraine kit with me at all times. Its in a small zippered pouch usually in the console of my vehicle. In order to deal with the med packs I keep a small tweezers in the pouch. It is strong enough to puncture the foil & paper protection on the med pack, works every time.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 nsanders- thanks so much for sharing your strategy. I think we are allowed to travel with tweezers as well, so this would be one that would work in that scenario as well. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
ntomcho Member
I feel this post so heavily! I've been in the throes of a severe migraine trying to open the blister pack only to have the little triangular pull tab break off! Why are these packaged in this manner?? Do we know if they really need to be kept in the blister or if they can be safely put into a pill bottle. I do what many of you do, and that is to use a sharp object to poke through the foil and then the membrane. I use Maxalt btw. You can't even push the pill through the membrane without it crumbling! Ughh.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hadit- you are asking the right question- which is, of course, why?! Why are these meds stored this way? So many of our community members are reporting taking them out of their packaging and putting them in other bottles. I plan to follow up with my pharmacist and neurologist to see if I can get some answers. I'll write back in the comments section above if I find any. Thanks for chiming in and getting to the crux of the matter! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
2. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 I'm wondering if it has to do with making them childproof -- but my goodness, they end up being adultproof too! Haha. -Melissa, <a href='http://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
anjilachrystyne Member
For a long time, I would pre-open most of my meds that came in a blisterpak, with the exception of my nausea meds which weren't as difficult and were meant to dissolve in your mouth, so I didn't want them to accidentally get wet. (They tasted nasty, so I always swallowed them with liquid, but...) I would then put the opened meds in an old prescription bottle, with a cut-out of the prescriptions. They were two different colors and I was never so far gone that I didn't know what they were, even if I couldn't communicate with others very well. Thankfully, I'm not currently chronic and just episodic (leaving Florida's insane weather sure helped...just by getting off the peninsula and north of the panhandle). Prescription meds typically do not work for my attacks, so my neuro switched me to taking tylenol extra strength in combo with sodium naproxen, which will usually kill it every time. (I have to thoroughly investigate brands for gluten as well...big trigger there, along with having celiac.) Those meds can be difficult because you have to line up the arrows. I've had to completely teach my boyfriend to make sure they are always lined up after he gets out pain meds for himself or I can't open them by myself in the midst of an attack. We have no little ones running around, so no concern of them accidentally opening and ingesting. When my attacks are bad enough, and I can't get things open, I have no issues asking for some form of assistance from whomever happens to be nearby. I travel with an index card when I'm by myself, which gives all my details and even instructions/options of what I need them to do in case I can't communicate. One of the options is to help me open my meds. Thankfully, I've never needed to use that option.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Sarah- thank you so much for sharing such a great idea about traveling with an index card in case you run into a challenge with aphasia and brain fog during an attack and are in need of assistance. I am definitely going to follow your lead on this. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
scoutsdad Member
I use OTC migraine pills (acetaminophen, aspirin, caffeine). Since we don’t have little ones in the house, I pop the “child proof” cover off the real cap. Also, I write in red sharpie what the pills are and the dosage, on the label. It’s hard to read the tiny print as it is, adding in the blurry vision is a no go.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 I do the same sharpie writing on the bottles, like you, Scoutsdad. I find it really helps with the migraine eye strain. Thanks for the ideas! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
bella5 Member
I use scissors to remove the pills, it’s the quickest and easiest way to open the blister packs. I remove nine pills at most, put them in an older bottle and then add a silicone packet to keep the moisture away...you can find one in most bottled OTC meds (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, melatonin, etc).
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 The silicone pack for freshness is an idea I hadn't yet heard until today. Ingenious for freshness if that's the issue. Some of the meltables are a challenge, though, due to their delicacy. I wonder about those. Perhaps they could be stored with some cotton. Thanks for the idea, bella5! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team)
inoexactlywhatumean Member
Argh! It feels like a punishment on top of the agony. I often end up delaying taking my Maxalt because the thought of dealing with the package is too much to bear. The worst part is that even if I manage to get a grip on the corner, it doesn't always tear away cleanly. Because the pill is not "hard," it can disintegrate in the package. Then I cry! My mom once suggested popping it out, and I scared her by shouting NO! I think they are too delicate to keep outside of the package. My newest solution? Nurtec. It has smoother opening package (and it seems do far to work faster on my migraines). Only problem there is the cost....
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hmmm- glad to hear the nurtec is working. I'm sure the maxalt folks wouldn't be thrilled to hear you have switched partially due to the impossibility of their packaging. But you are right about the ones that melt in your mouth, they are very tricky to carry in any other way because they disintegrate so easily. Still, there's got to be a better way! Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
katetyndall Member
Nail scissors. Just the other night I was admiring how easily the foil peeled off the backing from the pills in my latest batch of Zolmatriptan. We takenour victories where we can find them! Zolmatriptan has never been a terrible offender when it comes to packaging woes, though I’ve found it’s very dependent on the manufacturer. Eletriptan is another story altogether. ELE is my secondary triptan, so I’m not resorting to it but a couple of times a week. I will admit to having a full-fledged tantrum in the middle of a recent bad migraine trying to get the dang pill out of its packaging. Scissors were flung, tears of rage & frustration shed, and profane language uttered. I was in pain and completely beside myself as my mother used to say. I look at the ELE on my shelf with a jaundiced eye these days, and steel myself before trying my luck, not to mention my sanity, with that packaging. The offending pharmaceutical manufacturer of that particular version of ELE is Aurobindo. Consider yourself warned!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 I agree, katetyndall- some meds are easier than others. I appreciated your tale of frustration, and really have shared such a similar experience. I need to get myself some nail scissors-- my clippers don't work for this. Glad you chimed in, as always. Please stay in touch. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Yes- vickiew- the expense of those darned things- and the fact that we are only allotted a precious few every month! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
vickiew Member
If my husband is home, he opens the meds for me. If I am home by myself, I use scissors. Or if I am away from the house I live dangerously and use a small knife I carry in my purse. The problem with that is that I have cut myself, it's a very sharp knife. It's so frustrating that the packaging is so hard to open. People with chronic migraines have it so hard already, you would think the manufacturers would take this into account.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 My gracious vickiew- You are not the only person who has spoken of injuring themselves while opening this packaging. This is insanity. We should not be risking injury to access our treatments. I'm really stunned how major of an issue this is for so many of us. I'm so glad you joined the conversation to let us know! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
kcally Member
I have literally told my neurologist I don’t want maxalt or amerge bc I can’t get to the medication fast enough when I am sick! I use Imitrex bc it’s the easiest access! Glad I am not the only one!!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Did your neurologist have a response to this information? I would hope that with enough people logging complaints and challenges, perhaps a change would be made. I'm going to ask my neurologist who to contact about this. I would think the manufacturers would be surprised to hear how many of us are struggling and how, in your case, we are avoiding certain medications due to how difficult they are to access. Glad you chimed in kcally. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
retired1 Member
I use a razor blade knife to cut around the pill and take it out. I do all of them at once and store them in a separate pill container. It is irritating, but all of the pills seem to come in this type of packaging.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi retired1- you are brave to use the razor blade knife! I'd be scared with my klutzy nature to injure myself with that. I do like your idea of preparing ahead of time and storing them in a different container. Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
pifrankel Member
You are too funny! I thought I was the only one. I have a sharp little scissors in my bathroom or I use my teeth! Be well.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Oh no! This sounds like a far too common experience! Thanks for sharing, 63ug. I'm so surprised to hear how many of us are struggling with this very same thing. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
fiddleronthehoof Member
This is exactly what I hate. I'm standing there with my head splitting and I have do deal with some foil, plastic and paper wrapped pill that is so small that when I finally DO get the package open, flies across the room! Then I have to race my cat to find it before she does and keep her from either batting it into some other universe, or eating it. Sounds funny now but when your head feels like someone is sawing it in half with a dull hot knife, just trying get to the pill makes it ten times worse! So rather than following their hopeless suggesting of separating the packaging at the corner (which results in a thin strip of paper coming off the foil and a still securely sealed pouch) I get a knife and just cut in around the pill. That way I can skip the entertainment of playing find the pill with my cat, much to her disappointment. However, it does result in my meds getting where I need them with far less ache and much faster.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 HA! You describe a game I've played with my dog. The terrifying "don't eat the pill that flew out of the package" game. Glad you brought this up as I thought I was the only one! Thanks for chiming in, fiddlerontheroof!
lizard123 Member
I am chiming in to say how much I love the Ubrogepant packaging, and maybe you could suggest something like that. It comes in little foil pouches individually, not in blister packs. You fold the corner down to expose the little tear line, and rip across. It's worked perfectly for me (once I realized I had to fold the corner down). Every time I open it, I think "Why isn't every medication packaged like this??" Also, it's so easy to toss one pouch into different bags. I guess the point I'm making is that the technology exists to make it easier, so why wouldn't they?
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 lizard123- I've never heard of that medication and am now someone jealous of you. It's good to know there is something in the world like this- so that it is at least possible. We need that company to teach classes to the other companies! Thanks for sharing. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
spupp Member
I complain about this to my wife all the time! I was recently given samples of Nurtec. The blister pack is easy enough to open, but the cardboard secret puzzle box that must be solved to GET to the blister pack is another matter: "Unfold, remove, unfold again, press here while pulling there, then unfold yet again..." In the fog of a migraine, it might as well be the instructions to launch the space shuttle. I imagine the designer of this cardboard box from Hades snickering behind his hand. Every so often, I get rizatriptan in a blister pack designed so that the pull tap is inaccessible unless the individual blisters are separated, which they refuse to do without the jackhammer you mentioned in the video - or folding back and forth about 50 times. I like to do the folding back and forth in time with the pounding of my headache; it makes it fun (not). Don't get me started on eletriptan. I want to know where the designer lives so that I can toilet paper his/her house every Halloween (not really - I don't do that sort of thing). My solution to the Nurtec packaging is to remove the blister pack ahead of time. I keep a scissors with me at all times for the rizatriptan and eletriptan. I have purchased a supply of these pocket scissors, since they get confiscated and discarded any time I enter a federal building. Life as a migraineur certainly has its challenges!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 HA! SPupp- I recorded this video BEFORE I received my sample pack of nurtec and almost lost my mind with the packaging you describe. I thought it was a joke. I literally threw away the medication by accident and saved what were air bubbles that I believed to have been the medication so when it came time to try the medicine, I carefully opened.... nothing. I had to laugh, except I was almost vomiting in pain. Honestly. The amount of waste that came with that ridiculous marketing packaging was nothing short of insane. Usually I'm glad I'm not the only one dealing with migraine stuff so I feel less isolated, but on this front? I'm so sorry there are so many of us! Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
2. spupp Member
 I didn't even think of the air bubbles while typing my description! I, too, thought they contained medication the first time I opened the puzzle box. I'm so sorry that happened to you!
roxanegrippon Member
Immediately upon receiving my prescription, I use a knife to extract each pill from its plastic bubble and put all the pills in a repurposed pill bottle with a plastic cap that simply pops off, so I can easily access a tablet when needed. Fighting with packaging trying to get to a pill when SECONDS matter in the effort to abort an oncoming migraine only makes the whole episode WORSE! No idea why each tablet is individually wrapped in the first place. It's a bit insulting actually.
1. Peggy Artman Moderator
 <inline-mention user-id="3873287" username="roxane"/> , Its great when you find an easier way of doing things! ~ Peggy (Migraine.com team)
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Roxane- you are so right to point out the fact that the key to treating migraine is the speed at which we respond to it. If we wait, the pain can build such that it may take hours to days to reign it back in. So, yes, seconds do matter. Add to that the stress involved in trying to open these little buggers, and the our attacks may only further (and quickly) escalate. Who could've imagined our most effective treatments would be held captive in packaging that could worsen our condition?? Thanks for sharing your strategy and bringing up a point that has not yet been made. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
Mimi412 Member
I have sumatriptan as my attack med. When I first started taking, scissors were required to open the pill. I carried tiny crafting scissors with me in my emergency baggie of meds. I was excited when they changed the packaging. Simply tear here, fold here and tear here. HA HA!! Nothing like speed being a factor in successfully defeating a migraine early on and you can't open the medicine that holds the key to success. I usually bend the (seemingly) steel to separate it from the thick paper and tear the paper, hoping I tore it enough to push the pill out of the blister in one piece. Doesn't taste good going down if in more than one piece. There is no actual tearing or folding. Might as well be Fort Knox I'm trying to get into.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Mimi- great description to which we can all relate! Thanks so much for chiming in and sharing. While this might sound like a silly situation (the challenge of opening a package) - it's madness when we can't access a treatment that means relief as we are facing severe and intense pain and related complex neurological symptoms. There's nothing silly about that. Hope you'll stay in touch and glad you're part of our community! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
petmigraine Member
I take Zomig zmt which is a dissolve-in-the-mouth tablet. I love the dissolving idea as it doesn't have to go through the stomach which is already feeling nauseated...it doesn't require water or food, plus it gets to work faster 😀 I totally HATE the 'Brinks truck', iron-clad packaging 🙁 When I get a package, I cut up the little pill squares (tossing the trash air-squares) and put the little foil packs into a med bottle. Because this pill is dissolving, it has no protection coating from air so needs to stay in the packaging. So I have a tiny pair of scissors I keep with the med bottle when I'm away from home. In that case, I cut it open and forget trying to peeeeeeel it. (To be candid, when I'm at home with the hubby, he opens the packet for me 😀 I am fearful of concentrating so hard to pull packet open that I may send the pill flying~) Years ago when I was using Imitrex (and vomiting the pills half the time) I opted for the 'new' injection. THAT was a nightmare to open, prepare and execute (pain, crying, can't see, shaking hands, etc.).
1. Peggy Artman Moderator
 petmigraine, You are not alone in this frustration! To me, it seems like it didn't used to be so difficult. The only thing I can think of is that manufacturers do this to make the pills more childproof. The result is that they are adult proof too! ~ Peggy (Migraine.com team)
crystaljk Member
Oh my, yes!!!!! I remember when imitrex first came out. Even without a migraine, it was nearly impossible. A cardboard piece that had to be broken into, a little thing that had to be peeled back. I think I remember calling the company mid-migraine, crying, asking if they would please change the packaging!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 CrystalJK- thanks so much for sharing. Do you remember if you connected with the company or had any success with them? I'm really wondering if we should make some grand effort to try to reach these manufacturers enmasse. Would love to learn from you if you recall how things unfolded with your attempts. Thanks again- Holly (migraine.com team).
2. boymom05 Member
 Oh, and I also take Trokendi XR as a preventative, along with Cymbalta. I have for several years. It was first given to me in blister packs but it was free so who was I to complain? Now it’s in a bottle.
lzzrd Member
Get the tiny (1"-2&quot😉 ziploc baggies often used for craft or jewelry items. At a time when you DON'T have a migraine, open several packages and put into the little ziplocs.
1. stellare71 Member
 Usually one can find them in the sandwich bag aisle at the local store. Snack size I believe they're called.
2. MelanieM Community Admin
 That is a great idea Lzzrd- thanks for sharing this tip (using snack bags)! ~Melanie (team member)
rosedm Member
I am able to fuddle through with opening my rescue med, Maxalt, however, it was a preventative med, Trokendi, that had me cursing up a storm. I took scissors to their foil sheet right away in order to store the pills in a pill bottle. It was a trial even with scissors. The benefits of Trokendi were about as helpful as their packaging. I no longer use it.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi RoseDM- thanks so much for sharing about your trial and tribulations with this medication. This is not one that has been mentioned thus far- sounds like quite the challenge! I'd imagine if the company learned that the packaging kept you from wanting to take the treatment, they'd be troubled. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
2. vegasgirl Member
 I take Trokendi as it is a preventive med and comes in loose pills. I love this med.
upswife Member
My CVS Pharmacy actually puts them in a small pill bottle for me. I too hated dealing with the packaging. If you ask next time you get a refill maybe your pharmacy will do the same.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Thanks for sharing this strategy- seems some pharmacists will do this and others will not. Glad to hear you have had success and that you have a kind and willing pharmacist! I will definitely be asking mine next time around. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
famattjr Member
Impossible to open without a small knife or scissors. I take a knife, preferably a small one, and keep it flush to the "upside" of the packaging where the pills are, and slide it under the pill to make a cut, then take the pill out. I carry a small pill container with me and keep one in there, along with regular pain meds.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Thanks for the tip, famattjr. I'm surprised how many of us are using knives to access our medications! One would think that people with migraines shouldn't be having to use sharp pointy objects that require fine eye to hand coordination when we are battling complex neurological symptoms. I like your plan about employing a small pill container so that you have a place to carry a supply and therefore you can do the dangerous unearthing of your medications when you are not in the midst of an attack. Glad you shared and that you're a part of our community! Please keep in touch. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
stellare71 Member
I do as others have mentioned and have put a few doses of rescue med and nausea med in a small ziploc and carry it with me. Much easier than struggling with the packaging while fighting a migraine and trying not to throw up.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 You're the first to mention the use of a ziploc as a carrier for medication. Thanks for sharing your solution to this challenge, Stellare71 (and love your username!). Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
7505elkins Member
Difficult always have nail file with me
1. MelanieM Community Admin
 I envy your preparation, 7505elkins! I feel like I never have what I need when I go to look for it! Thanks for sharing with us. ~Melanie (team member)
vegasgirl Member
I use Relpax and it comes in little individual square blister packs. You bend the corner down to peel the foil off and then pop the pill out. Now that I have the hang of them they are easy.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi vegasgirl- thanks so much for letting us know that with some time and practice, Relpax can be opened! Also good to hear that the Trokendi is working well for you. It's amazing how various treatments work so differently for each of us. Glad you're a part of our community and hope you'll stay in touch! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
suzanne5258 Member
One month I received my rescue meds in a pill container. After that, I opened the blister packs when I was pain free and stored them in the bottle. I don’t understand why they’re so difficult to open!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi suzanne5258- thanks for chiming in- and sorry you can relate to this challenge! Such a good question- none of us seem to be able to answer why this packaging is so difficult to open! Grateful you are a part of our community. Hope you'll stay in touch. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
SunriderKSY Member
I take Maxalt ODTs. They come in those infuriating foil and paper squares, individually. A lot of my migraines come at 3-4 am and it's freaking IMPOSSIBLE to open one of those in the dark. So in the light of day and when I'm pain free, I tear the packages apart (they come in sheet of 6), then I find the corner where they're to be peeled and fold it back. Since they're moisture sensitive I don't remove them from the foil, but just having an individual dose with one corner ready to be yanked off make it super easy to get a dose in the dark.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Sounds like smart pre-planning on your part. The melting ones are the most difficult, as you mentioned, because they can't be pre-opened. Thanks for sharing your strategy! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
chester Member
I understand the rationale of individual packaging since I have put my pills in a bottle and accidentally taken an extra <a href='http://dose.it' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>dose.it</a> wasn’t pleasant. I had muscle cramps, rapid heardbeat and nausea for over 24 hours. I was a little sensitive I guess, but nobody should have to go through that. It was worse than the cure. The first doctor that gave me triptans would only give me 3 pills a month. I was deathly afraid of losing one and having to pay $40 for a single pill if anyone would replace it.
1. chester Member
 I also never felt safe with shar p objects when in the throes of a migraine.
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Ah, Chester - you've raised a point no one else has raised thus far- that of the individual packaging being in place to help with pacing of the medication. For safety and price, good point, indeed! Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
tammom Member
Obviously the manufacturers of migraine medicine doesn’t have to open them when they have an episode. Here’s my trick ... I am on Imitrex, they come in a foil blister pack. (I swear they use super glue in these packs.) My Imitrex comes in a sheet of 9, I cut them apart and peel off the top layer, leaving the fine foil layer intact. I also keep one (removed from the packaging) at my bedside along with 2 Aleve gel caps for easy access. Sure helps a lot!!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 TamMom- this is a GREAT strategy. I know exactly what you mean by removing the first layer of backing to reveal the second (easier to poke-though) foil. It can be tricky to separate the two, but easier accomplished when not in the throes of an attack. Thanks for sharing this approach- no one had mentioned this one yet. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
boymom05 Member
I also use Relpax. The problem isn’t with the name brand drug; it’s with the generic form and, for me, one generic company’s particularly. The blister pack is difficult for even my husband to open. Obviously, the makers of these medications don’t take into account the uses of the drugs and who the consumers are. IF they did, packaging would not be so unobtrusive.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Thanks so much for adding your voice to the chorus, boymom05 (do you have 5 sons?? if so, as the mom of 2, I bow down to you!)! Interesting to hear that your husband, who I assume does not suffer from migraine, also has difficulty opening the medications on your behalf. Very affirming that they are locked up too well! Grateful you are a part of our community. Please stay in touch. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
2. msmmain Member
 Omg yes! Relpax is the worst!! I have both generic imitrex and generic Relpax, and the Sumatriptan is hard enough, but holy crap the relpax is just plain impossible!! My fiance cuts them out with scissors for me, and dumps them into an empty prescription bottle because he cant open them either, and in the past I cut myself on the rigid plastic+foil layers theirs are made of. He has also had the genius idea to ask for the pharmacist to always put them into a bottle instead... Which they once were so confused by that request that they literally put the whole box+ foil packet + paper insert into a great big huge empty prescription bottle once - It was the funniest thing!! We still laugh about that. There wasn't even a label on the bottle - it was on the box inside the bottle. Most of the time they don't take the pills out of the foil card, but it's nice to have a bottle that is (usually) pre-labeled to put them into each time.
suzanne5258 Member
When I’m feeling well, no migraine, I use a scissors and cut all the pills out of the packaging. Then I put them in an empty prescription bottle that I’ve saved. Next time I have a migraine, all I have to do is open a bottle.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Way to think and plan ahead, suzanne5258. Thanks for sharing your strategy with us! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
harissa Member
Since I consider taking care of my migraines work, and I work from home, I keep my headache war chest in my desk. I take an ink pen and go around the pill and turn it over and push it out. My son, however, can expertly pull back that tiny little tab and peel it straight off. But, I can't do that. I think it is because I am already impaired before I decide to sacrifice one of my precious pills. I keep all of my empties in my box so I will know how many I have taken and some of them look pretty rough; I am like oh I remember that one-I think I cried. I take Imitrex but tried Maltrex for a while (cheaper) which didn't work as well.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi Harissa- Thanks for joining the discussion. I love your description of taking your migraines as seriously as a job. It is so true and this condition needs to be managed that way - proactively, thoughtfully, and in an organized and careful fashion. Also interesting how you keep the packaging and how that serves to tell the tale of your brain fog and related neurological challenges that accompany the attack. You painted a vivid picture to which many of us can relate. Thanks so much for sharing. Glad you're a part of our community and hope you'll continue to stay in touch. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
jamie2811 Member
Due to having my grandchildren most days, I’m unable to leave them in any easily opened format. My finance opens mine, but has to use a knife for it. Before my granddaughter was born, I always kept some open and ready in a small keychain pill holder with a screw on lid. My question is, why are the shots so hard to fiddle around with during an attack. There are days that I can’t even prepare the shot my self.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi jamie2811- Glad you have a fiance who can lend a hand when you're in need. Which kind of shots are you talking about? Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
bsjohnsn Member
My migraines started over 40 years ago when there were few effective treatments available. Then came the dissolveable ergotamines, which only seemed to work if you took them during the warning sign peroid. The weren't much help waking up with a full blown migraine. But, they were easily opened from their packaging. I've now been taking generic Imitrex, ( Sumatran ), which have worked well for me, no matter when I take them, since they first came out. I've found the packaging on either generic or name brand miserable to open during an attack. Plus, sometimes a whole tablet is too much for me. So, I know they say not to cut them up, but I do. As soon as I get them, so long as I'm migraine free, I take a pair of very sharp scissors, cut them all out of their iron clad packaging, then carefully cut them into quarters with a pill splitter. I then portion them into clearly labelled empty pill containers or small film canisters. I keep most in my bathroom, a few by my bed, some in my purse and some downstairs. The past couple years my migraines have become slightly less severe but more frequent, so having a smaller dose available, with a second dose as necessary is great, if I need it. This also takes care of the increase in frequency. I now have the option of taking more lower doses if I'm having more clusters, or fewer pills when they are milder, less prolonged or less frequent. Having them easily accessible, ready at hand, is a life saver. I've never had a problem with moisture either.
1. glassmind Member
 Yes! Multiple stash spots. I do this also. Because sometimes it does hit too fast to make it to another room. I also carry all my meds in a bag when I leave the house along with an eye mask and ear plugs.
2. cathyz Member
 Your story sounds exactly like mine. It took me about six years to figure out how to open each pill! And often crushed pills trying to open them. I too split them in quarters as my headaches seem less severe most of the time.
kirbymom Member
Oh those miserable pill packages. I keep a little Swiss Army knife that has tiny scissors on them. They have opened my rescue ed more than once.
1. bethannsoule Member
 I have found a cuticle pusher to be the best. It's sharp enough to cut the foil but unlike a knife I'm not worried about accidentally damaging the medication during an attack (when I have zero coordination)!
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 A-ha! Now there’s a suggestion not yet offered. Ingenious, BethAnne! Thanks so much for sharing as I have worried over damaging the medication itself. Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
michelm Member
What a great topic. I take Rizatriptan/Maxalt which comes in metallic strips of 3 tablets. I absolutely could not get them open. When a migraine starts I lose some of my coordination and seeing I couldn't open these things without a migraine....well, you get the picture. So I'd end up with a knife, prying the darn tablet out of the metallic strip, praying I wouldn't cut myself. Finally, I remembered to ask my pharmacist how to open these packages of mystery and she showed me a delineated edge that ran along each strip. She said that all I had to do was split open this edge which would open the actual metallic row. So easy - I should have asked earlier - or maybe have been health taught when I first picked this med! So, now when I take out a new strip I bend it open so it's ready to go when my fumbling migraine fingers need my med.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi michelm- That strip can be hard to find! Glad you find the secret access to these important meds! Thanks for sharing. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
glassmind Member
I had ones like this. I took them out of the packaging in advance and put them in labeled containers with instructions. Now all my rescue meds either come in easy-ish (what is easy during a migraine attack?) packaging or is an injectable (which can be tricky to self administer during an attack). A prefilled single use injection would be easier. Idk if there is one or if my healthplan would approve it. I make do with the version I have. I have always self injected but have had site reactions or limited efficacy due to my improper technique (again, hard to self inject during an attack). May we all have literally easier access to medication...and just less or no more attacks (I can dream). Hugs
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi glassmind- I'm glad you touched on the topic of self-administering injections during a migraine attack. This is something no one else has touched on and is a very important one. It's so key to get those injections right and yet when we're in extreme pain, it's very difficult to get anything right. I have some permanent skin lumps as a result of getting injections wrong due to this very challenge. Thanks, as always, for chiming in! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
2. glassmind Member
 It’s so tricky. I had only one site reaction from improper technique so far. Fingers crossed this all either of will have as bad sticks. Hugs
angeline263 Member
Yep, you are not alone! I keep an old fashioned metal letter opener in my nightstand (seems safer than a knife). When I’m out in the world I have a pill bottle in my purse that contains one or two of every medicine I take, in case I forget, plus Advil, Tylenol etc, and my migraine rescue meds- out of the packaging but in a childproof prescription bottle. If I’m really hard up, I peel off the whole top layer, to get to the foil then I use my fingernail to poke through the foil.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 angeline263- Thank you for sharing your strategies with us! The letter opener is one we hadn't heard yet and is a good one, for sure! Glad you're a part of our community. Please keep in touch. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
wappaw Member
This video is SO funny!! I have always said some sadist developed the packaging for migraine rescue medications. I cannot count the times I have struggled to open my Imitrex / Sumatriptan Succinate rescue meds while in the middle of a migraine, that I let go too far because I was hording the limited supply. Brain fog, migraine impacted vision, and a package so difficult to open. I typically separate the packages into the individual pill packet, and then cut the package so I can pull up part of the backing. That way when I need to open the packet, I can easily grab the tab I made. My recent generic supply is God awful to open, and I always needed to use scissors to open the package. Believe it or not, one day when I wasn't having a migraine, I read the opening instructions on the package, and I no longer need the scissors. Who would have thought...
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 I'm not sure I'm glad this video resonated with you, <inline-mention user-id="3905284" username="wappaw"/> - as that means you're having a horrid time with this process as well! I am glad you mentioned the migraine impacted vision part of things as that certainly plays a major factor. I also agree that generic supplies can sometimes be the worst. I also hilariously got a sample pack recently and worked and worked to open it while in the middle of an attack, only to realize I was opening a blister/bubble area in which there was no medication at all. Now funny in retrospect, it certainly was frustrating at the time. Glad you chimed in. Please stay in touch! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
ladyjaskie Member
I was raised in a rural part of Virginia, where children learn to use a pen knife properly by ages 8-10. I have always kept a pen knife in my purse, and I even have a small one hooked onto my key ring! Using a pen knife to open packaging is easy. With a flick of the wrist, you can slice into either side of the package for access to the medicine.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Ladyjaskie- Thank you for sharing this strategy! I had to look online to see what a pen knife looked like! Is that the same as a pocket knife? Anyway- cool skill to know how to use it and to have one handy for this purpose! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
falcon6 Member
My secret tool - my husband or daughter. I am going to start doing like someone above said - cut them all open and out them in an old pill bottle!
JakeMaxwell Community Admin
Hi <inline-mention username="falcon6" user-id="3833680"/> - I'm glad to hear it sounds like your husband and daughter and helpful and willing to help you open those frustrating bottles. Also glad to hear the trick of putting meds into an old pill bottle sounds helpful to you. Keep us updated on if you do give it a try and if you find it helpful! - Jake (Team Member)
stellare71 Member
Yes to all the issues! I generally pre fold the little corner on the pull tab. I always keep some meds and nausea meds in a little pill box in my pocket. I've struggled though, with a horribly bad migraine trying to open nausea AND my rescue medicine while fighting both things. My pharmacy won't put my meds in another container. I get the boxes of 9 of Sumatriptan. I will ask again. Good luck to all of you. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="stellare71" user-id="3866072"/> I hope your pharmacy might agree at some point. Mine does it only if I request it each and every time I have them filled. I do find your suggestion of pre folding the corners (when my brain is working properly) to be very helpful. Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
rynanne Member
I’ve use nail clippers or the pointy end of my tweezers, that I keep in my purse. The jagged edge of my house key works sometimes. I can usually finagle it out of its kevlar packaging with those… if I can get my brain and fingers coordinated enough with a migraine. I know some need to be kept away from light or moisture, but have no idea why it has to be packaged like that. At $20 per pill, that my insurance makes me pay, it may worth it to keep them safe, but just barely.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="rynanne" user-id="3793893"/> Sounds like you've become a real expert at accessing these medications! Your "kevlar packaging" comment made me LOL. And yes, they are so pricey, it's perhaps worth keeping them locked up in the safe-like environment they come in! Thanks so much for chiming in. Hope you'll stay in touch to keep sharing the wisdom you've earned with the rest of us. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
Sweetbabygus Member
I have found that, at least with the sumaptriptan I'm given, there is a blank square. It's a package of 9 rather than 10. (I know you folks have discussed that frustration before!) The blank square has at least 2 very pointy, sharp corners. If you hold it just right you can use the corner like a knife to open this Fort Knox-like packaging. It takes a little practice but I'm happy to say I can get into that packaging in a matter of seconds almost every time. Good luck everyone!
1. Cheryl Picerno Moderator
 @Sweetbabygus I feel your pain! Why do they make the packaging so darn hard to get into?? When I or my husband is having an attack the last thing we need is a difficult package to get into. Over time you get more adept at opening them and getting to the much-needed medication inside! Warmly, Cheryl <a href='http://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
maple Member
I use scissors at home, usually cutting an edge of the pill off. Out in the world I use my car key to puncture the packet and usually the tablet as well. 😁 I totally agree with you! 💜
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="maple" user-id="3672245"/> Yes- I, too, have cut pieces of my pills off while trying to access these darned things! There's got to be another way! Thanks for chiming in! Glad you're with us. Warmly- Holly (migraine.com team).
kateymac Member
I laughed out loud with joy and recognition when I saw this topic! It is SO ridiculous and it makes me nuts. There’s a comedian who joked about how everything you buy is so impossible to open EXCEPT for light bulbs.🤣 Lightbulbs are practically wrapped in paper, when they are one of the most fragile items you can buy. I think of this every time I am dealing with these ridiculous pills. 😩😠🤣 Thanks so much for this topic. By the way, my nausea med is also packaged in these steel traps. And those are tiny and very hard to find after i finally break into one, using such force that it pops right up into the air and lands somewhere on the floor I haven’t swept in weeks.😳😧😤 Kate 🌷 
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="kateymac" user-id="3784217"/> Thank you for sharing this with us - you're not alone! We've heard from many who take open the impossible packaging and put the pill into a easy opening container, which I've done. I smiled about your sweeping - same here!! Hoping today is a good day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Advocate/Moderator
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="kateymac" user-id="3784217"/> I don't think I'll ever forget this thought about lightbulbs. How apt! Thanks for sharing! The whole thing really is ludicrous! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
maryanneadame Member
I had to laugh at your video today.. thanks for that! Also, because I do not have a headache today, I found it amusing. Not sure how many are taking Nurtec,but the packaging for that particular drug is so silly. First you open a flap, have to push on a particular spot on the envelope, and hope the pills then release and slide out of the packaging.. it’s absolutely stupid and not too mention a complete waste of paper and cardboard. I mentioned it to my doctor, and she agreed , and planned to contact the drug company. 
1. shayla.oakes Community Admin
 @maryanneadame, I can understand the need to be child-proof but some companies go too far. I have seen many of our community members complain about Nurtec packaging. They need a better solution. I hope that you have a fabulous, migraine-free day. Hugs, Shayla (<a href='http://Migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a>, Team Member)
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="maryanneadame" user-id="3850937"/> YES! I know of the nurtec packaging! It's hilariously baffling and maddening when in the throes of a migraine attack. Glad my video gave you a laugh and that you found it relatable! Hopefully enough doctors and patients are complaining so that a change may be made some day. With the nurtec, I've ended up damaging the meds trying to get them out of the packaging! Thanks for chiming in! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
Sherrielund Member
I carry a. Staple remover on my purse the new kind that's all one piece. It's useful for a couple of things. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Sherrielund" user-id="4135298"/> After nearly 140 comments and ideas, I thought I'd heard them all- but no- that's one I've not heard before! Fascinating and probably just about the right, handy size! Thanks for sharing! Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
Dkheinlen Member
I have a friend who is a former flight attendant (packing light was key in her life). As a migraine sufferer, she had this little pill box with different sections, and different labels to fill out for it. She gave me one of these for my purse. At home, I go ahead and use scissors to cut down the side of those troublesome little cards of pills, then I keep them in my "migraine kit" which stays on my bathroom counter, along with my nausea meds, etc.
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Dkheinlen" user-id="4540775"/> Thank you for joining the conversation! It sounds like you have a great migraine toolkit! How are you feeling today? I hope it is a low pain day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='http://Migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team Member