Generic Imitrex - sumatriptan - is used to treat severe migraine headaches. Many people find that their headaches go away completely after they take sumatriptan. Other people find that their headaches are much less painful, and that they are able to go back to their normal activities even though their headaches are not completely gone. Imitrex, sumatriptan, often relieves other symptoms that occur together with a migraine headache, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound.


 

FAQ

How does Imitrex work?
• Imitrex is a headache medicine. It is believed to work by causing vasoconstriction (narrowing) of blood vessels (arteries and veins) around the brain. Imitrex also reduces the release of substances in the body that contribute to headache pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other migraine symptoms.

• Imitrex is used to treat vascular headaches such as migraine and cluster headaches. Sumatriptan will not prevent migraines or cluster headaches or reduce the number of attacks. Imitrex will only treat a migraine or cluster headache that is already occurring.

How to use Imitrex
The usual adult dose is one 25-, 50-, or 100-milligram tablet taken with water or other liquid. The most quantity of sumatriptan you should take at one time is 100 milligrams, and the most you should take in 1 day is 200 milligrams. Doses should be spaced at least 2 hours apart. Tablets of Imitrex are to be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them. If you have never taken sumatriptan before and you have risk factors for heart disease, you may be advised to take the very first dose in your doctor's office in order to monitor for rare but serious heart problems (e.g., heart attack).
If you have liver disease, you should not take more than 50 milligrams of Imitrex Tablets at one time.

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. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: seizures. 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 taking Imitrex, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Special warnings about Imitrex
Although the danger is minimal, Imitrex has triggered serious heart problems in people with heart disease. For that reason, the doctor may want you to take your first dose of the medication in the office, where you can be closely watched for ill effects.

Be sure to tell the doctor if you have any conditions that increase your risk of heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Also let him know if you smoke, have heart disease in the family, or have gone through menopause. Patients at risk of heart disease should have periodic cardiac evaluations as long as they continue using Imitrex. If you develop pain or tightness in the chest, throat, or jaw after taking a dose, consult your doctor before taking any more.


Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Imitrex during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Imitrex does appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Sumatriptan is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Imitrex is finished.