Relpax/Relert (eletriptan) is prescribed to treat the headache phase of a migraine attack. Eletriptan belongs to a class of drugs known as triptans. Triptans act as antimigraine agents by selectively binding to serotonin receptors in the brain. Cranial arteries become dilated during a migraine attack, leading to the pain. By binding to vascular receptors, eletriptan triggers vasoconstriction of the cranial arteries and lowers the level of the migraine attack. It also reduces substances in the body that can trigger pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other migraine symptoms.
Eliptran works to lower the symptoms of an active migraine episode but does not prevent headaches or reduce the number of attacks. It should not be used to treat tension headaches or any other headaches that seem different from normal migraine attacks.
Dosage
The usual initial dose once a migraine attack has started is one tablet (20 mg or 40 mg) as prescribed. If the first tablet does not relieve the migraine, do not take a second tablet for the same migraine attack. As long as there was some improvement after the first dose; a second dose may be taken at least 2 hours later if the pain returns. However, the maximum dose is 160 mg in any one 24-hour period. This medicine is not intended for patients over 65 years of age or children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
There is a wide range of common but relatively mild side effects, such as:
- Chest pain, tightness or pressure in the chest, heart palpitations, increased heart rate
- Dizziness, vertigo
- Headache
- Somnolescence (feeling sleepy)
- Reduced sense of touch or pain
- Sore throat, tightness in the throat, dry mouth
- Gatro changes such as stomach pain, indigestion, nausea
- Changes in joints and muscles, such as stiffness, increased muscle tone, muscle weakness, back pain, muscle pain, and generally feeling weak
- Feeling hot or cold, sweating, flushing.
If these persist or worsen, consult with a doctor or pharmacist.
Contact a doctor immediately if any of the following symptoms are experienced shortly after taking this Relpax:
- Sudden wheeziness, difficulty in breathing, swelling of eyelids, face or lips, rash or itching (especially affecting the whole body) which may be a sign of a hypersensitivity reaction.
- Chest pain and tightness, which may be intense and involve the throat. These may be symptoms of problems with the blood circulation of the heart (ischaemic heart disease)
- Signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome, which may include restlessness, hallucinations, loss of coordination, fast heartbeat, increased body temperature, fast changes in blood pressure and overactive reflexes.
Relpax is intended for the treatment of the acute headache phase of a migraine attack, with or without aura.