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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