Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your health regimen.

When pain strikes, most people reach for a bottle of painkillers.

But a new internet tip is turning heads—and it starts at the drive-thru.

It’s low-effort, salty, and full of caffeine.

And for some, it’s delivering migraine relief faster than they ever expected.



Online users are buzzing about a simple McDonald’s combo—a large Coke and a large fries—to ease or even eliminate migraines.

The trend has been dubbed the “migraine meal,” and one short video featuring it has already racked up over 3 million views.

In the clip, a woman in a drive-thru explains she’s trying the combo after battling a 48-hour headache.

The comment section is full of people claiming the same combo works for them too.


One commenter wrote, “I know it’s just the salt and caffeine but every time I have a migraine or even one coming on I get a coke and a fry and it’s immediately cured.”

Another added, “It’s my go to!! I take my migraine meds, sip a Diet Coke, and as my pain goes away, I crave salt…”

A few users insisted on using full-sugar Coca-Cola, not Diet, along with ibuprofen for max effect.

Others were baffled, admitting coffee worsens their migraines but Coke somehow helps.



Health experts say there may be science behind the claim.

Caffeine is known to enhance the effectiveness of pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

“It isn’t too surprising that caffeine in Coca-Cola itself is helpful,” said Dr. David Walker, MD, in an interview with Very Well Health.

The combination of sugar, salt, and caffeine may offer short-term relief for certain migraine types.



Salty fries may also play a role, especially for people whose migraines are triggered by dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.

While this isn’t a cure-all, it can be a helpful, occasional trick for some.

Doctors caution against using this method too frequently, as regular fast food consumption isn’t a long-term solution.

“If someone finds that they improve with this hack, that’s great for them. But if they’re using it often, that’s not good for you either,” warned Dr. Matthew Robbins to TODAY.


Have you ever tried a fast food remedy for a migraine or headache? Did it work for you—or do you rely on a different go-to comfort fix? Tell us in the comments—your insight might help someone else manage their next headache.