The invention provides methods for treating and / or preventing headaches by administering to patients therapeutically effective amounts of 1,2-dihydropyridine compounds, and, optionally, cholinesterase inhibitors and / or anti-migraine agents. The headaches may be primary headaches, such as migraines, or secondary headaches. The invention also provides combinations, commercial packages, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising therapeutically effective amounts of 1,2-dihydropyridine compounds and, optionally, cholinesterase inhibitors and / or anti-migraine agents. The 1,2-dihydropyridine compound may be, for example, 3-(2-cyanophenyl)-5-(2-pyridyl)-1-phenyl-1,2-dihydropyridin-2-one. The cholinesterase inhibitor may be, for example, 1-benzyl-4-((5,6-dimethoxy-1-indanon)-2-yl)methylpiperidine.