Indications
Zomig (generically known as zolmitriptan) is a medication used to treat migraine headaches with or without aura in adults. It belongs to a class of drugs called triptans that specifically targets (5HT) 1B/1D serotonin receptors in the brain. Zolmitriptan does not prevent future migraines or reduce the frequency of attacks.
Migraine headaches happen due to the dilation of blood vessels in the brain. Zolmitriptan works by narrowing blood vessels in the brain and reducing the release of certain substances that can trigger migraine symptoms, such as pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. This leads to the relief of migraine headache symptoms such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Uses and Dosage
Zomig is available as both tablets and the recommended dose is 2.5 mg for the treatment of a migraine episode. If your symptoms improve but return after 2 hours or longer, a second tablet may be taken as directed by your doctor, but do not take a second tablet unless your doctor recommends it. The dosage will depend on factors such as your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking.
Do not take additional doses of Zolmitriptan before speaking to your doctor if there is no improvement in your symptoms. If symptoms are partially relieved, or if your headache returns, it's acceptable to take another dose at least two hours after the first dose. Do not exceed a total of 10 milligrams within a 24-hour period, and some patients may be advised to avoid consuming more than 5 milligrams in a 24-hour period. Follow your doctor's instructions precisely.
If you are using drugs to treat migraine attacks on more than 10 days in a month, the drugs may worsen your headaches (medication overuse headache). Do not use medications more frequently or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Inform your doctor if you need to use this medication more frequently, if it is not working as well, or if your headaches get worse.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Zomig (Zolmitriptan):
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Feeling tired
- Flushing (warmth redness or tingly feeling)
- Pain or tightness in your throat or chest
- Pressure of heavy feeling anywhere in your body
- Upset stomach
Serious Side Effects of Zomig (Zolmitriptan):
- Agitation
- Bloody diarrhea
- Chest pain or pressure
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fast heart rate
- Pounding heartbeats
- Feeling of tightness in your jaw neck throat or chest
- Fever
- Hallucinations
- Hives
- Loss of coordination
- Nausea
- Overactive reflexes
- Pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder
- Sudden and sever stomach pain
- Sweating
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Vomiting
Form and Strength
Zomig (Zolmitriptan) is available in the following forms and strength:
Zomig: Tablet
- 2.5 mg
Zolmitriptan: Tablet
- 2.5 mg
Caution
- Do not take Zomig if you have a history of certain heart problems, including heart attack, angina (chest pain), or stroke.
- Zolmitriptan may cause serious and life-threatening side effects such as heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you have any risk factors for these conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking or being overweight.
- Zomig may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
- Zolmitriptan should not be used in combination with other triptans or ergotamine-containing medications. This is because their actions may interact and lead to serious health problems.
- Zomig should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems, as their clearance of the drug may be slower.
- Zolmitriptan may interact with other medications. Inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Zomig should not be taken with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) as this combination can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Zolmitriptan should be used with caution in elderly patients, as they may be more prone to side effects such as dizziness, sedation, and serotonin syndrome.
- Zomig should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as its safety during these periods has not been established.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does zolmitriptan (Zomig) take to work?
Zolmitriptan (Zomig) typically works within 2 hours to relieve your migraine.
How often can I take zolmitriptan (Zomig)?
Taking migraine medications, including zolmitriptan (Zomig), 10 or more days per month can cause worse headaches, leading to medication overuse headaches.
Can Zomig be used for other types of headaches besides migraines?
Zomig is only approved for the treatment of migraine headaches and should not be used to treat other types of headaches.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Zomig?
If you miss a dose of Zomig, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
What should I do if I overdose on Zomig?
If you suspect you have overdosed on Zomig, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include dizziness, confusion, and seizures.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601129.html
- https://www.goodrx.com/zolmitriptan/what-is
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/zomig
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020768s019s021,021231s010s011lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5400/zomig-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/zomig.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=84b51cb9-83f3-4a49-7fa3-1adc0f963658&type=display
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