Imitrex® (sumatriptan) is used to treat migraine headache attacks once they occur. It is not designed to prevent migraines, and should be taken at the onset of the first symptoms of a migraine headache. Imitrex® is the most widely prescribed acute migraine medication in the U.S.
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Imitrex®
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Uses
This medication is used to treat migraine headache attacks once they occur. It is not effective in preventing migraines. This medication is not to be used for other types of headaches.
How to Use
One dose is taken by mouth at the first signs of a migraine attack. If you must take a second dose, do so exactly as instructed by your doctor. Do not take more than 200mg in a 24 hour period. Tablets are to be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them.
Side Effects
This medication may initially cause flushing, dizziness, weakness, nausea, drowsiness, stiffness, or feelings of tingling, heat, fatigue. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have: heart disease, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, stroke, kidney disease, liver disease, allergies (especially drug allergies). There have been rare reports of those with sulfa drug allergies having allergic reactions to sumatriptan. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. Since this medication may cause drowsiness, use caution operating machinery or engaging in activities requiring alertness and avoid alcohol because it may increase drowsiness/dizziness effects. The manufacturer does not recommend use of sumatriptan in the elderly, because they may be more sensitive to its side effects. Sumatriptan should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication is excreted into breast milk. The effects on nursing infants are unknown at this time. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medication you take, especially of: ergotamine- containing medication, all headache drugs, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine). Do not take MAO inhibitors with sumatriptan or use sumatriptan within 2 weeks of stopping use of MAO inhibitors. Do not take any ergotamine-containing medication and sumatriptan within 24 hours of each other. Also, report the use of all antidepressants or any medications used for weight control. If you are unsure about the types of medications you take, ask your care provider or pharmacist. It is recommended to avoid consumption of alcohol while taking this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include tremor, chest pain, slowed breathing, and seizures.
Notes
This medication is used to relieve a migraine attack in progress. It is not effective in preventing migraine attacks.
Missed Dose
Take this medication only when a migraine attack occurs as directed. This is not taken routinely. Never "double-up" the dose.
Storage
Store this medication at 15 to 30 degrees C (59 to 86 degrees F) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
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