Imitrex

IMITREX MEDICATIONS

SUMATRIPTAN - ORAL TABLET (sue-muh-TRIP-tan)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Imitrex

USES:

This is a migraine headache medication which is used to treat your migraine once it occurs. It is not effective in preventing migraines, and should not be used for all types of headaches.

HOW TO USE:

One dose of this medication is taken by mouth at the first signs of a migraine attack. If you must take a second dose, do so, but only 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. While these symptoms may not need medical attention if any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. In the rare event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. The 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 a history of the following: 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 this medication. Use caution operating machinery or engaging in activities requiring alertness because this medication may cause drowsiness, and avoid alcohol because it may increase the drowsiness or dizziness effects. The manufacturer recommends that the elderly should not use this medication, because they may be more sensitive to its side effects. Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should consult with their doctor about all the risks and benefits associated with this medication. It should only be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Women who are nursing should consult their doctor before breast-feeding, because this medication is excreted into breast milk. The effects on nursing infants are unknown at this time.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

It is extremely important to tell your doctor about all of the 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 to your doctor. If you are unsure about the types of medications you take, ask your doctor or pharmacist. It is recommended to avoid consumption of alcohol while taking this medication. Never start or stop any medicine without first obtaining approval from your doctor.

OVERDOSE:

Contact your local emergency room or poison control center if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of overdose may include tremor, chest pain, slowed breathing, and seizures.

NOTES:

This medication is used to relieve a migraine attack in progress; however it is not effective in preventing migraine attacks.

MISSED DOSE:

Take this medication only when a migraine attack occurs. This is not taken routinely. Never "double-up" the dose.

STORAGE:

Store this medication at 15 to 30 degrees C or 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.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

This information is not intended to replace the knowledge and skills of a qualified healthcare provider. While the following can be a valuable resource, this drug may not be safe or effective for everyone. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking any prescription medication.