Imitrex

Generic name: Sumatriptan succinate

What is Imitrex?

Imitrex is used to treat migraine headaches. It does not prevent or reduce the number of migraines you have. Imitrex should only be used to ease the pain of the actual migraine attack.

Imitrex is available as tablets, injection and nasal spray.

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

Imitrex should not be used in people who have heart problems such as coronary artery disease (CAD). Also, this drug should not be taken by those who have symptoms or risk factors for CAD but are as yet undiagnosed (eg, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoker, overweight or obese, diabetes, family history of CAD, menopause, men over 40 years).

Imitrex may increase your blood pressure and should therefore not be taken by people who have uncontrolled blood pressure.

Who should not take Imitrex?

Do not begin treatment with Imitrex if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Also, do not take this drug if you have liver problems, high blood pressure, heart problems, or you are taking any other medications with ergotamine or within 2 weeks of taking an MAOI.

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

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

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.

Tablets

Adults: The usual dosage of Imitrex tablets is 25 milligrams (mg), 50 mg, or 100 mg taken at the first sign of a migraine. If the pain is not relieved, another dose may be taken 2 hours after the first; the maximum daily dosage of Imitrex is 200 mg.

Nasal Spray

Adults: Imitrex nasal spray is available as 5 mg or 20 mg. A 10-mg dose may be achieved by the administration of a single 5-mg dose in each nostril. The usual dose is a single nasal spray in 1 nostril. If your headache comes back, you can take a second nasal spray anytime after 2 hours after you took the first spray.

For any attack where you have no response to the first nasal spray, do not take a second nasal spray without first talking with your healthcare provider. Do not take more than a total of 40 mg of Imitrex nasal spray in any 24-hour period. The safety of treating an average of more than 4 headaches in a 30-day period has not been established.

Injection

Adults: The maximum single recommended adult dose of Imitrex injection is 6 mg given subcutaneously (under the skin). The maximum recommended dose that may be given in 24 hours is two 6-mg injections separated by at least 1 hour.

How should I take Imitrex?

Imitrex tablet should be swallowed whole with water or fluids at the first sign of a migraine attack.

Imitrex Injection should only be administered subcutaneously, under the skin.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Imitrex?

If Imitrex 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 Imitrex with the following: ergotamine, monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

What are the possible side effects of Imitrex?

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: burning/tingling/prickly sensation on the skin, chest pain or tightness, cold/warm sensation, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, neck/throat/jaw pain, sleepiness/tiredness, vomiting

Can I receive Imitrex if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Imitrex 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 Imitrex?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Imitrex?

Store at room temperature, away from light and heat. Keep the injection in the carrying case that comes with it.