
The
following information is a summary about Imitrex. It is
not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Imitrex USES
Imitrex is specifically designed just for migraines and is
the first medicine of its kind to target the nerves and blood
vessels believed to trigger migraines - the throbbing pain,
nausea, and the sensitivity to light and sound. Imitrex is
used to treat migraine headache attacks once they occur.
It is not effective in preventing migraines.
Imitrex DIRECTIONS
One dose is taken by mouth at the first signs of a migraine
attack. If you must take a second dose, do so exactly as
instructed by your doctor. Do not take more than 200mg in
a 24 hour period. Tablets are to be swallowed whole with
a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them.
Imitrex SIDE EFFECTS
Imitrex may initially cause flushing, dizziness, weakness,
nausea, drowsiness, stiffness, or feelings of tingling, heat,
fatigue. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome,
inform your doctor. In the unlikely event you have an allergic
reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching,
swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other
effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Imitrex PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor if you have: heart disease, coronary artery
disease, high blood pressure, stroke, kidney disease, liver
disease, allergies (especially drug allergies). There have
been rare reports of those with sulfa drug allergies having
allergic reactions to sumatriptan. Consult your doctor or
pharmacist. Since Imitrex may cause drowsiness, use caution
operating machinery or engaging in activities requiring alertness
and avoid alcohol because it may increase drowsiness/dizziness
effects. The manufacturer does not recommend use of sumatriptan
in the elderly, because they may be more sensitive to its
side effects. Sumatriptan should be used during pregnancy
only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits
with your doctor. Imitrex is excreted into breast milk. The
effects on nursing infants are unknown at this time. Consult
your doctor before breast-feeding.
Imitrex DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription
medication you take, especially of: ergotamine- containing
medication, all headache drugs, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone,
linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine). Do not
take MAO inhibitors with sumatriptan or use sumatriptan within
2 weeks of stopping use of MAO inhibitors. Do not take any
ergotamine-containing medication and sumatriptan within 24
hours of each other. Also, report the use of all antidepressants
or any medications used for weight control. If you are unsure
about the types of medications you take, ask your care provider
or pharmacist. It is recommended to avoid consumption of
alcohol while taking Imitrex. Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Imitrex OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose
may include tremor, chest pain, slowed breathing, and seizures.
Imitrex NOTES
Do not share Imitrex with others. Medical examinations including
the nose are generally performed during prolonged use of
this product to check for side effects. Inform all your doctors
you use (or have used) Imitrex.
MISSED DOSE
Take Imitrex only when a migraine attack occurs as directed.
This is not taken routinely. Never "double-up" the dose.
Imitrex STORAGE
Store Imitrex at 15 to 30 degrees C (59 to 86 degrees F)
away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep
this and all medications out of the reach of children.