Indications
Imitrex DF is an oral medication used to treat migraine headaches. Its active ingredient is sumatriptan succinate, which belongs to a class of medications known as 5-hydroxytryptamine agonists (also called "triptans"). It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the head, which helps to reduce the pain associated with migraines.
Imitrex DF is usually taken at the onset of a migraine headache, and can help relieve the pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and other symptoms associated with migraines.
Use and Dosage
Sumatriptan comes in the form of a tablet and is taken orally, usually once a day with or without food. To use Sumatriptan tablets, swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet, as this can alter its effectiveness. If you have difficulty swallowing tablets, some Sumatriptan tablets may have a score line to help you break it in half.
You may take the tablet with or without food. The recommended dose is usually 50mg or 100mg, depending on your doctor's instructions. It is typically recommended to take the tablet at the onset of a migraine headache for the best results. Always follow your doctor's instructions and read the patient information leaflet that comes with the medication. These instructions may vary depending on the brand and formulation of Sumatriptan tablets that you are using.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Imitrex DF (Sumatriptan):
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Burning
- Coldness
- Heat
- Heaviness
- Numbness
- Pressure
- Strangeness
- Tightness
- Tingling
- Warmth
- Weakness
- Flushing
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Tiredness
- Unpleasant taste
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Imitrex DF (Sumatriptan):
- Loss of color in fingers or toes
- Shaking, tremors, or uncontrolled movements
- Skin rash, hives, itching, or bumps on skin
- Slow, fast, or pounding heartbeat
- Temporary increase in blood pressure
- Unusually cold hands or feet
- Vision changes (usually temporary: blind spots, flashes of light, seeing two images of a single object)
- Convulsions (seizures)
- Fast or irregular breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Loss of vision
- Lower abdominal pain or severe rectal bleeding (blood in the stool or black, tarry stools)
- Persistent purple discoloration of hands and feet
- Swelling of the face or throat, hives, difficulty breathing)
- Pain
- Pressure
- Tightness, or heaviness in the chest, jaw, neck, or shoulder
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion or problems with speech
- Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
- Sudden dizziness or loss of coordination
- Sudden severe headache, especially if it seems different from your usual headaches)
- Confusion
- Fast heartbeat
- Hallucinations
- Restlessness
- Shaking
- Shivering
- Sudden jerking of muscles, sweating
Forms and Strength
Imitrex DF (Sumatriptan) is available in the following forms and strength:
Sumatriptan: Tablet
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Cautions
- Sumatriptan is excreted in human breast milk, so caution is advised when administering it to nursing women.
- Use with caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment.
- The medication may cause side effects such as abdominal or stomach pain, anxiety, blurred vision, changes in patterns and rhythms of speech, chest pain or tightness, chills, confusion, and others.
- The medication may not prevent future migraines or lessen how often you get migraine attacks.
- Write down when you have headaches and when you take Imitrex.
- If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects, seek medical attention immediately, including going to the hospital emergency room right away
- Do not take Imitrex DF if you have severe liver disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, a history of heart disease, stroke, a heart attack, or certain types of vision problems.
- Before taking Imitrex DF, inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures, epilepsy, or any other conditions that affect the central nervous system.
- Imitrex DF may interact with other medications you are taking, inform your doctor of all prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking.
- If you have an allergic reaction to sumatriptan or any of the ingredients in Imitrex DF, stop taking it immediately and seek medical attention.
- Imitrex DF is not intended for use in pregnant women unless absolutely necessary, as it may harm the developing fetus.
- Do not use Imitrex DF more than 4 times in a month as it may cause medication overuse and headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Imitrex DF be used to prevent migraines?
No, Imitrex DF should not be used to prevent migraines. It is only effective at treating acute migraine symptoms.
Is Imitrex DF safe for everyone to take?
Imitrex DF may not be safe for everyone to take. Before using Imitrex DF, inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, liver, or kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor can help you determine if Imitrex DF is safe for you to use.
Is Imitrex DF addictive?
No, Imitrex DF is not addictive. It does not contain any habit-forming ingredients.
How long does it take for Imitrex DF to work?
Imitrex DF usually starts working within 30 minutes of taking it. If your symptoms do not improve within two hours of taking the first dose, you may take a second dose of Imitrex DF as directed by your doctor.
How should I store Imitrex DF?
Imitrex DF should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep the medication in its original packaging until you are ready to take it.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/020132s028,020626s025lbl.pdf
- https://www.drugshortagescanada.ca/shortage/144306
- https://pharmasave.com/health/medications/imitrex-df/
- https://pdf.hres.ca/dpd_pm/00026238.PDF
- https://ca.gsk.com/media/6599/imitrex.pdf
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/imitrex-df
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