Amerge

Generic name: Naratriptan hydrochloride

What is Amerge?

Amerge is used to treat migraine headaches (but it does not prevent or reduce the number of attacks you experience).

What is the most important information I should know about Amerge?

There is a risk of heart attack associated with Amerge. If you have heart problems, talk to your doctor about other migraine treatments.

Who should not take Amerge?

Do not take Amerge if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

Do not take Amerge if you have risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, are overweight, have diabetes, smoke, have a strong family history of heart disease, are postmenopausal, or a male over the age of 40.

You should not take Amerge if you have kidney or liver problems.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Amerge?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Amerge. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart, kidney, or liver problems, or if you have high blood pressure.

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 dosage of Amerge is between 1 milligram (mg) and 2.5 mg taken for each migraine attack.

If your headache returns because you have only had a partial response to Amerge, speak with your doctor as he may recommend you repeat treatment 4 hours after the first dose. The maximum dose of Amerge is 5 mg a day.

How should I take Amerge?

Amerge tablets should be taken whole with fluids.

You may take it at any time after your headache starts. If you have no response to the first tablet, do not take a second tablet without first talking to your doctor. If you need more relief due to a partial response or return of your headache after the first tablet, a second tablet may be taken, but not sooner than 4 hours following the first tablet.

Do not take more than a total of 2 tablets in any 24-hour period.

If you have kidney or liver disease, take as directed by your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Amerge?

Avoid becoming pregnant while being treated with Amerge.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Amerge?

If Amerge 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 Amerge with other migraine medicines or medicines for depression, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

What are the possible side effects of Amerge?

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, drowsiness, fatigue, feeling warm, flushing, heaviness, pressure, sick, tingling

Stop taking Amerge immediately and call your doctor if you have: heart throbbing, chest or throat pain or tightness, hives, shortness of breath, skin rash, skin lumps, sudden severe abdominal pain, swelling of eyelids/face/lips, wheezing, confusion, hallucinations, feeling faint, sweating, muscle spasm, difficulty walking, or diarrhea

Can I receive Amerge if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Amerge on pregnancy are unknown, and it may pass into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are nursing.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Amerge?

If you missed a dose of Amerge, take the dose as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Amerge?

Store at room temperature, away from light and heat.