Sumatriptan is used to treat the symptoms of migraine headaches (severe, throbbing headaches that sometimes is accompanied by nausea or sensitivity to sound and light). Sumatriptan is in a class of medications called selective serotonin receptor agonists. It works by narrowing blood vessels in the head and stopping pain signals from being sent to the brain. Sumatriptan does not prevent migraine attacks.
Sumatriptan comes as a tablet to take by mouth and a nasal spray. It should be used at the first sign of a migraine headache. If you are at risk for heart disease and you have never taken sumatriptan before, you may need to take the first dose in your doctor's office. Usually only one dose is needed. If pain is not relieved with the first dose, your doctor may prescribe a second dose to be taken after at least 2 hours. Do not take more than 200 mg of the tablets or 40 mg of the nasal spray in any 24-hour period. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take sumatriptan exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Take the tablet with plenty of water or other fluids.
To use the nasal spray, follow the package directions or ask or your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
- Imitrex®
©2010. All Rights Reserved.
Your use of this information is subject to our User Agreement available at www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org.
