Relpax

Generic name: Eletriptan hydrobromide

What is Relpax?

Relpax is used to treat migraine headaches with or without the presence of auras (visual disturbances that precede an attack, such as halos or flickering lights). It shortens the duration of the headache but will not prevent attacks.

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

Relpax should only be used during a genuine attack of classic migraine. Do not attempt to prevent migraines with this drug, and do not use it for tension headaches, cluster headaches, or unusual types of migraine such as hemiplegic or basilar migraine.

In rare cases, medications similar to Relpax have caused heart attack, stroke, and certain types of ischemia (restricted blood flow to an area). Call your doctor immediately if you experience chest pains, 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 Relpax. Your doctor may ask you to take the first dose of Relpax in the office, where you can be monitored for cardiac side effects.

Relpax can cause a slight increase in 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. If you develop high blood pressure that can't be controlled, you'll have to stop taking Relpax.

Who should not take Relpax?

If Relpax causes an allergic reaction, you will not be able to use it. You should not use Relpax if you have ever had a heart attack or if you have ever had any of the following vascular problems: angina, cardiovascular disease, coronary artery vasospasm, ischemic bowel disease, ischemic heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, Prinzmetal's angina, stroke, transient ischemic attacks, or uncontrolled high blood pressure.

You cannot take Relpax if you have severe liver impairment.

Relpax should never be taken within 24 hours of other migraine or headache medication (see "Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication").

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

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

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: When a headache begins, take one 20-milligram or 40-milligram tablet. If the first dose does not relieve the headache, check with your doctor before taking a second one. If the headache goes away but returns later, a second dose may be taken if 2 hours have elapsed since the first dose. Do not take more than 80 milligrams of Relpax in a 24-hour period.

How should I take Relpax?

Take Relpax exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Relpax?

Since Relpax can make you drowsy or dizzy, do not participate in activities that require full alertness until you are certain of the drug's effect.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Relpax?

If Relpax is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Never take Relpax within 24 hours of using another migraine or headache drug, including: almotriptan, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, frovatriptan, methysergide, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and zolmitriptan.

You should also refrain from using Relpax within 72 hours of taking the following: clarithromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, and troleandomycin.

What are the possible side effects of Relpax?

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: chest tightness or pressure, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, sleepiness, tingling, weakness

Can I receive Relpax if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Relpax in pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Relpax is excreted in breast milk. If you are nursing an infant, discuss your treatment options with your physician.

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

Relpax is not intended for regular use and should be taken only to relieve an acute migraine attack.

How should I store Relpax?

Store at room temperature.