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Imitrex - Uses & Side Effects

Generic name: Sumatriptan succinate

Imitrex (sumatriptan succinate) tablets are indicated for the acute treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults.Imitrex (sumatriptan succinate) tablets are not intended for the prophylactic therapy of migraine or for use in the management of hemiplegic or basilar migraine. Safety and effectiveness of Imitrex (sumatriptan succinate) tablets have not been established for cluster headache, which is present in an older, predominantly male population.

Imitrex Dosage

In controlled clinical trials, single doses of 25, 50, or 100 mg of sumatriptan succinate tablets were effective for the acute treatment of migraine in adults. There is evidence that doses of 50 and 100 mg may provide a greater effect than 25 mg. There is also evidence that doses of 100 mg do not provide a greater effect than 50 mg. Individuals may vary in response to doses of sumatriptan succinate tablets. The choice of dose should therefore be made on an individual basis, weighing the possible benefit of a higher dose with the potential for a greater risk of adverse events.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed.

Uses of Imitrex

• Imitrex is used to treat migraine headaches.
• In most people, sumatriptan eliminates or reduces the symptoms of migraine, including headache, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Significant relief of migraine pain is usually experienced by about 10 to 15 minutes after using the injection, 15 minutes after using the nasal spray, and about 30 minutes after taking the oral tablets.

Side Effects of Imitrex

The following side effects can occur when taking Imitrex:

• dizziness
• nausea
• fatigue
• drowsiness

Warnings and precautions before taking Imitrex:

• If you develop severe chest pain, call the doctor immediately. Also seek immediate attention if you suffer sudden, severe abdominal pain after a dose of Imitrex. It could signal a blood vessel problem.
• Be careful not to inject Imitrex into a vein. This can cause a serious heart irregularity.
• If your fingers turn pale, then blue, after a dose of Imitrex, you may have a circulatory problem such as hardening of the arteries. Be sure to let your doctor know.
• This medication should not be used for other types of migraine headache. If the first dose does not relieve your symptoms, your doctor will re-evaluate you; you may not have migraine or cluster headache.
• If your headache does not feel like any you have been experiencing, do not take Imitrex.
• Use Imitrex cautiously if you have liver or kidney disease. Also, if you have any trouble with your eyes, tell your doctor.
  

Drug Interaction :-

If Imitrex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either may be increased, decreased, or altered. It is important to check with your doctor before combining Imitrex with the following:

• Drugs classified as MAO inhibitors, including the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate
  
• Ergot-containing drugs such as Cafergot and Ergostat
  
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
  
• Fluvoxamine (Luvox)

Overdose

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of Imitrex overdose may include:

• Bluish tinge to the skin, convulsions, dilated pupils, inactivity, lack of coordination, paralysis, redness in the arms and legs, skin changes at the site of injection, slow breathing, sluggishness, tremor