Maxalt
Generic Name: Rizatriptan
What is Maxalt?
Maxalt is used to treat migraine attacks in adults. It shortens the duration of the headache but will not prevent attacks. Maxalt is available as a regular tablet and an orally disintegrating tablet (Maxalt-MLT).What is the most important information I should know about Maxalt?
Maxalt should only be used during a migraine attack. Do not attempt to prevent migraines with this drug, and do not use it for other types of headaches.In rare cases, medications similar to Maxalt have caused heart attack, stroke, and certain types of ischemia (restricted blood flow to an area). Call your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or seeing, loss of balance, bloody diarrhea, or stomach pain.
If you are at risk for stroke or heart disease, your doctor may perform cardiovascular tests to be sure it is safe for you to take this medication. Maxalt can also increase blood pressure, especially in people with kidney problems and the elderly. Your doctor will monitor you closely to make sure your blood pressure stays at a safe level.
Who should not take Maxalt?
Do not take Maxalt if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients, or if you have a history of heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Do not take Maxalt with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, a class of drugs used to treat depression and other psychiatric conditions.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Maxalt?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Maxalt. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of kidney or liver problems, high blood pressure, stroke or blood vessel disease, heart problems, or if you have risk factors for heart disease (such as high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, or a family history of heart disease or stroke). Also tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The usual dose to treat an attack is one tablet containing either 5 milligrams (mg) or 10 mg; each dose should be separated by at least 2 hours. Do not take more than 30 mg of Maxalt in a 24-hour period.
How should I take Maxalt?
Take Maxalt as soon as you feel a migraine starting, exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If your headache comes back after your first dose, you may take a second dose 2 or more hours after the first dose.Swallow Maxalt tablets whole with liquid. For the orally disintegrating tablets (Maxalt-MLT), open the blister pack with dry hands and place the tablet on your tongue; it will dissolve rapidly and be swallowed with your saliva. You do not need to take any liquid after the tablet dissolves.
What should I avoid while taking Maxalt?
Since Maxalt can make you drowsy or dizzy, do not participate in activities that require full alertness until you know how this drug affects you.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Maxalt?
If Maxalt is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Maxalt with propranolol. Do not take Maxalt within 2 weeks of starting or stopping certain antidepressants and Parkinson's drugs known as MAO inhibitors.Do not take Maxalt within 24 hours of using another migraine or headache drug, including triptans and ergotamines such as the following: almotriptan, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, frovatriptan, methysergide, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and zolmitriptan.
What are the possible side effects of Maxalt?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: dizziness, sleepiness, tiredness, fatigue, pain or pressure in the chest or throat, dry mouth, nausea, headache, warm/cold sensations, palpitations, diarrhea, vomiting, tremor, difficulty breathing, flushing, hot flashes
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects: visual disturbances, ringing in the ears, ear pain, eye discomfort, alterations in hearing and smelling, intolerance to light, chills, heat sensitivity, swelling, fever, extreme dizziness, fainting after standing, dehydration, changes in urination or menstruation, and allergic reactions such as rash or itching.
Can I receive Maxalt if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Maxalt during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Maxalt?
Maxalt is not intended for regular use and should be taken only to relieve an acute (sudden) migraine attack.How should I store Maxalt?
Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep Maxalt-MLT in the blister packet until you are ready to take the medication.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
