Indications
Frova generically known as frovatriptan is a medication used to treat migraines. It is a type of medication called a selective serotonin receptor agonist, or a triptan. Frova works by impacting serotonin, a natural substance responsible for the narrowing of blood vessels in the brain, and by affecting specific nerves in the brain that contribute to pain relief.
Frova is available only by prescription and is not appropriate for everyone. Prompt use of the medication helps individuals return to their normal routine and may reduce the need for other pain medications. Frovatriptan can effectively treat migraines, it does not prevent future migraines or reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
Uses and Dosage
Frova is taken orally in tablet form. To properly use Frovatriptan for migraine relief, take it by mouth as prescribed by your doctor, at the first sign of a migraine. The tablet can be taken with or without food but should be swallowed whole with water. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking Frova.
The correct dosage is based on your medical condition and how your body responds to the treatment. Do not take more doses or increase the dosage if there is no improvement in your symptoms before consulting with your doctor.
The usual dose is 2.5 mg, taken as soon as possible after the onset of a migraine headache. You may take another dose after two hours, up to a maximum of three doses (7.5 milligrams) in 24 hours.
If you use Frovatriptan or any other drugs for migraine attacks on 10 or more days every month, the drugs may worsen your headaches (medication overuse headache). Follow the prescribed dosage, including how often the medication should be used. Do not use the medication more often or longer than directed by your doctor. If the medication is not working well or your headaches get worse, contact your doctor.
Side effect
Common Side Effects of Frova (Frovatriptan Succinate):
- "Pins and needles" feeling in the hands or legs
- Bone pain
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Flushing
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Hot or cold sensation
- Tiredness
Serious Side Effects of Frova (Frovatriptan Succinate):
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Bloody diarrhea
- Blurred vision
- Burning pain
- Cold feeling in your legs or feet
- Color changes (pale or blue) in your legs or feet
- Cramps in your legs or feet
- Difficulty breathing
- Fainting
- Fast heart rate
- Fever
- Hallucinations
- Hip pain
- Hives
- Irregular heartbeats
- Loss of coordination
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
- Nosebleeds
- Numbness or tingling
- Overactive reflexes
- Pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder
- Pounding in your neck or ears
- Pressure in your chest
- Problems with vision or balance
- Seizure
- Severe chest pain
- Severe headache
- Shortness of breath
- Slurred speech
- Sudden and severe stomach pain
- Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of your body)
- Sweating
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Tight or heavy feelings in your legs or feet
- Vomiting
Form and Strength
Frova (Frovatriptan Succinate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Frova: Tablet
- 2.5mg
Frovatriptan Succinate: Tablet
- 2.5 mg
Caution
- Concurrent use of Frova with other medications that also affect serotonin levels in the body, such as antidepressants and certain pain medications.
- Use Frova with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems.
- Use it with caution in patients with high blood pressure or a history of heart disease.
- The safety and effectiveness of Frova in children and adolescents have not been established.
- Some patients may experience angioedema and anaphylaxis as hypersensitivity reactions to Frova.
- Use Frova with caution in patients with elevated levels of serotonin in the bloodstream.
- Caution is advised for patients with heart disease who use Frova, as it can cause serious cardiovascular side effects.
- Like other triptans, Frova may interact with drugs such as dihydroergotamine (DHE) and methysergide, resulting in serious side effects.
- Caution is advised for patients with blood circulation problems in their legs or feet when using Frova.
- Frova should be administered with caution to patients with impaired liver or kidney function.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I take Frova with other medications?
Any other medications you are taking with your doctor before starting treatment with Frova, as it may interact with other drugs.
Is Frova addictive?
No, Frova is not habit-forming or addictive.
Is Frova safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Accumulated data suggest that exposure to Frova during pregnancy and breastfeeding may be safe but discuss any potential risks with your doctor.
How often can you take frovatriptan (Frova)?
Take the tablet up to 9 days per month. Overusing migraine medications (taking them more than 9 days per month) can cause your headaches to get worse, leading to medication overuse headaches.
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