
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.