Indications
Imitrex (active ingredient: sumatriptan) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Migraine: Imitrex is used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults.
- Cluster Headache: It is also indicated for the acute treatment of cluster headache attacks in adults.
Imitrex belongs to a class of drugs known as triptans, which work by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, causing blood vessels to constrict and reducing inflammation, thereby relieving migraine and cluster headache symptoms.
Uses and Dosage
Sumatriptan comes in the form of a tablet to take orally with or without a meal or as directed by your doctor. This should be taken at the first signs of migraine. Swallow the whole tablet and drink a glass of water after that. Cutting, chewing, or crushing this drug is not recommended.
The recommended single dose of Sumatriptan for treating a migraine headache is typically between 25 mg to 100 mg to be taken by mouth. After 2 hours, you may repeat the dose if you experienced some relief from the first dose. The dose should not exceed a total of 200 mg in a 24-hour period.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Imitrex (Sumatriptan):
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Feeling numbness, prickling, or heat
- Flushing
- Mild headache
- Tingling sensation
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Imitrex (Sumatriptan)
- Bluish fingers or toenails
- Cold hands and feet
- Fainting
- Hearing changes
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- bloody diarrhea
- Mental or mood changes
- Seizure
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of stroke
- Confusion
- Sudden vision changes
- Trouble speaking
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Symptoms of heart attack
- Symptoms of serotonin toxicity
- Agitation
- Hallucination
- Loss of coordination
- Muscle twitching
- Palpitation
- Severe vomiting
- Unexplained fever
Form and Strength
Imitrex (Sumatriptan) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Imitrex: Tablet
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Sumatriptan: Tablet
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Caution
- If you are allergic to sumatriptan or have any other allergies, make sure to inform your doctor or pharmacist before using it. This product contains inactive ingredients that can potentially cause allergic reactions or other issues, speak to your pharmacist for more information before using it.
- Certain conditions can increase your risk for heart problems when taking isosorbide mononitrate. tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, a family history of heart disease, are overweight, smoke, are postmenopausal (if you are a woman), or if you are over the age of 40 (if you are a man).
- Isosorbide mononitrate can make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machinery, or engaging in any activities that require alertness until you can do it safely. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy, limit alcoholic beverages and speak to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
- You should not use Imitrex if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart problems, certain heart rhythm disorders, a history of heart attack or stroke, or circulation problems that cause a lack of blood supply within the body.
- Inform your doctor or healthcare provider of any medical conditions or medications that you are taking before using isosorbide mononitrate, as well as discuss any potential side effects or risks associated with taking this medication.
- Using any other migraine headache medicine within 24 hours before or after using Imitrex is contraindicated. Consult with a healthcare provider for accurate and specific information about the use of prescription medications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for sumatriptan to work?
Sumatriptan usually starts working within 30 minutes to an hour after taking it.
How often can I take sumatriptan for migraines?
Sumatriptan should not be taken more than 2-3 times per week to prevent rebound headaches.
Can sumatriptan be used to prevent migraines?
No, sumatriptan is not intended to prevent migraines. It is used to treat migraines after they have started.
Can I take sumatriptan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Talk to your healthcare provider before taking sumatriptan if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Are there any lifestyle changes that can help treat migraines?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as getting enough sleep, managing stress, and avoiding triggers such as certain foods or drinks, can help prevent migraines.
Can sumatriptan be taken with other medications?
Sumatriptan can interact with certain medications, so it is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/imitrex.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-11571/imitrex-oral/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=cc11b09d-e6cc-4cf8-1495-5ac64d5aae5f
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/sumatriptan-oral-route/description/drg-20074356
- https://www.rxlist.com/imitrex-drug.htm
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020132s024s026lbl.pdf
- https://www.goodrx.com/sumatriptan/what-is
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