Maxalt

Generic name: Rizatriptan benzoate

What is Maxalt?

Maxalt is used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks in adults. It is available as a traditional tablet (Maxalt) or an orally disintegrating tablet (Maxalt-MLT).

Maxalt works to relieve migraines by reducing the swelling of blood vessels surrounding the brain, blocking the release of substances from nerve endings that cause pain, and interrupting the transmission of specific pain signals to the brain.

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

Maxalt should be used only for migraines and not to treat headaches that might be caused by other conditions. Maxalt should only be used when a clear diagnosis of migraine has been established.

Maxalt has the potential of causing coronary vasospasms (a condition in which blood vessels spasm and lead to narrowing). Because of this, it should not be given to patients with heart disease or to those who have risk factors for heart disease. Risk factors for heart disease are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, diabetes, a strong family history of heart disease, of if you are a postmenopausal woman or a man older than 40. Your doctor will evaluate you to make sure Maxalt is right for you.

Who should not take Maxalt?

Do not take Maxalt if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients; if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of heart disease; or if you have a hemiplegic or basilar migraine. Do not take Maxalt if you have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 2 weeks. Do not take Maxalt within 24 hours of using certain migraine drugs, including triptans and ergotamines.

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

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Maxalt, including those you normally take for a migraine. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have had high blood pressure, chest pain, shortness of breath, heart disease, stroke, or allergies. Discuss any risk factors for heart or blood vessel disease, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, and a family history of heart or blood vessel disease, or if you are postmenopausal or a man over 40.

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.

Your doctor will prescribe either a 5 milligram (mg) or 10 mg dose. If your headache comes back, a second dose may be taken anytime after 2 hours of the initial dose. Do not take more than 30 mg of Maxalt in a 24-hour period. If you have no response to the initial dose, call your doctor before taking another tablet.

If you are receiving propranolol, the dose is 5 mg, with a maximum of three doses in a 24-hour period.

How should I take Maxalt?

When you have a migraine headache, take your medication as directed by your doctor. For tablets, swallow the tablet whole with liquid. For 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.

What should I avoid while taking Maxalt?

If you experience side effects such as dizziness, sleepiness, tiredness, or fatigue, do not drive or operate heavy machinery.

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 the following: antidepressants that boost serotonin; monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine;triptans and ergotamines; or propranolol.

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, 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

Can I receive Maxalt if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not use Maxalt if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are trying to become pregnant, unless you have discussed this with your doctor. The effects of Maxalt while breastfeeding are unknown; talk to your doctor.

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

Maxalt should only be taken when needed. It should not be taken on a regular basis, unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor.

How should I store Maxalt?

Store at room temperature and away from heat, light, and moisture. With Maxalt-MLT, do not remove the blister from the outer aluminum pouch until you are ready to take the medication inside.