Imitrex and its sister product Imigran (generic name: sumatriptan) are medications prescribed to treat migraine and cluster headaches. There are various ways to take it: by mouth in tablets or capsules, in the nose with a nasal spray, or by subcutaneous injection under the skin.
What Conditions is Imitrex Prescribed For?
Imitrex is prescribed for adults diagnosed with migraines, with or without aura, and also for the treatment of cluster headaches. It is not regularly used for children under the age of 18, nor for geriatric patients. Imitrex is not a preventative medication but is only used to alleviate the symptoms of migraines or cluster headaches.How Does Imitrex Work?
Imitrex is a treatment for symptoms of migraine. Its main component, sumatriptan, is known as a serotonin 5-HT receptor agonist, belonging to a class of drugs known as triptans. It works mainly by causing narrowing of blood vessels as well as affecting specific nerves in the brain. Imitrex doesn’t prevent future migraines or lessen the frequency of migraine attacks. The exact mechanism by which it works is not fully understood. Still, it is known to be effective for ending or relieving the intensity of migraine and cluster headaches. It is most effective when taken early after the start of the pain. Injected Imitrex is more effective than the other oral or nasal forms.What are the Side Effects of Imitrex?
Common side effects may include some of the following feelings, which should be reported to the prescribing physician:- Chest pressure
- Fatigue (Malaise)
- Sleep disturbance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Tingling sensations in hands and feet (paresthesias)
- A sense of dizziness (vertigo)
- Serotonin syndrome (displaying high fever, seizures or uneven heartbeat. Without treatment, serotonin syndrome can cause kidney failure or breathing trouble, leading to coma and death.)
- Symptoms of a heart attack (myocardial infarction, tachycardia, coronary artery vasospasm, transient myocardial ischemia, or ventricular fibrillation)
- Symptoms of a stroke
- Seizures.
Is Imitrex Available Over the Counter?
No. Imitrex is available by prescription only from IsraelPharm in the following forms:|
Brand |
Dose |
Form |
| Imitrex | 100mg | Tablets |
| Sumatridex | 100mg | Caplets |
| Imitrex | 50mg | Tablets |
| Sumatridex | 50mg | Caplets |
| Imitrex | 20mg x 2 | Nasal Spray |
| Imitrex | 6 mg / 0.5 ml 2 Package | Injection |
FAQ
What is the difference between a migraine and a headache?
Both the experience and the causes of migraines differ from those of headaches. Usually, they are differentiated in consultation with a medical practitioner, who will review a range of specific events, such as:- The time that the pain started, and the duration
- Any likely triggers, such as stress
- The nature of the headache
- Any accompanying symptoms
- A specific feature of migraine, such as an aura
- Any accompanying medications in use.
What are the characteristics of Migraine Aura?
Migraine with aura is a particular type of migraine headache. However, auras can occur without the physical pain of a headache. Migraine auras are sensory symptoms that can occur before or during a headache. They may take the form of physical and visual disturbances and sensations. Symptoms of migraine tend to occur in stages:- People with migraines usually experience some symptoms beginning hours or even days before the headache.
- A person might experience feelings of depression and irritability – technically known as a “prodrome.” This may involve emotional changes, sensitivity to light and sound, dizziness and thirst.
- Sometimes an aura can occur involving physical or sensory sensations such as flashing lights in the field of vision.
- All through the headache, there are mild to severe throbbing or pulsing headaches, along with some symptoms including dizziness, nausea and vomiting, neck pains and nasal congestion.
- After the headache, feelings of tiredness and irritability may last another couple of days. This is known as a “migraine hangover.”
