What type of medication is commonly prescribed for tension headaches?

Analgesics are commonly prescribed for tension headaches because they are specifically designed to relieve pain. Tension headaches, often characterized by a mild to moderate, bilateral, pressing or tightening sensation, can typically be managed effectively with over-the-counter analgesics like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. These medications work by reducing pain and inflammation, making them suitable for addressing the symptoms of tension headaches.

In contrast, antibiotics are ineffective for tension headaches as they are used to treat bacterial infections, which are not a cause of headache pain. Antihistamines are primarily used for allergy relief and help with symptoms related to histamine reactions, not for directly addressing headache pain. Stimulants, while they may be used in specific scenarios, such as certain types of migraines or to counteract fatigue, are not a standard treatment for tension headaches and could potentially exacerbate the headache in some cases. Therefore, analgesics are the appropriate choice for managing tension headaches.