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Headache Relief > Imitrex
Imitrex 
 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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