Description

Sumatriptan, taken at the beginning of a migraine headache, may reduce the severity of the headache. It is not effective in preventing migraines. It can also stop the upset stomach, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and noise associated with migraine headaches. This medication is not to be used for other types of headaches.

Manufacturer: Sun Pharma		Average Delivery Time: 12 Days
Brand Name: Imitrex		Exp. Date: Approx. March 2009

What Is Imitrex?
Imitrex® (sumatriptan succinate) is a prescription medication that is used to treat migraine headaches. Imitrex will not help to prevent migraines, but it can help to treat a migraine that is already occurring. The injectable form of Imitrex is also approved for the acute treatment of cluster headaches.

(Click Imitrex Uses for more information on what Imitrex is used for, including possible off-label uses.)

Manufacturer of Imitrex
Imitrex is made by GlaxoSmithKline.

How Does Imitrex Work?
Imitrex is part of a class of migraine medications called 5-HT agonists (or more commonly known as "triptans"). During a migraine headache, some of the blood vessels in the head can become dilated (wider than they usually are). Imitrex works by narrowing these blood vessels, helping them return to their normal state. This action helps to relieve migraine symptoms.

Imitrex Effects
In one study, 52 to 62 percent of people with migraines had no (or mild) pain within two hours of taking Imitrex tablets, compared to only 27 percent who did not take Imitrex. Within four hours, as many as 79 percent of people who had taken Imitrex had migraine relief, compared to just 38 percent of people not taking Imitrex. Similar results were seen in studies of Imitrex Nasal Spray and Imitrex Injection.

When and How to Take Imitrex
Some general considerations for when and how to take Imitrex include:

Imitrex comes in tablets, a nasal spray, and an injection.

Imitrex should be taken as soon as possible once a migraine starts.

Swallow Imitrex tablets whole with a drink of water or other fluids.

Imitrex Nasal Spray and Imitrex Injection both come with pamphlets that describe exactly how to use them.

If your headache comes back or does not go away, you may take a second dose of Imitrex after waiting at least two hours from the time you took the first dose of Imitrex tablets or Imitrex Nasal Spray (or one hour after the first dose of Imitrex Injection). Let your healthcare provider know if Imitrex does not work completely after one dose.

For Imitrex to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Imitrex will not work if you stop taking it.

Imitrex Dosing
The dose of Imitrex your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:

How you respond to Imitrex
Other medical conditions you may have
Other medications you may be currently taking.

As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.