Imitrex, also known by Sumatriptan, is a prescription medication used in the treatment of migraines. It is classified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a category C medication, which means there is an unproven risk it could harm a human fetus. Although category C medications are questionable during pregnancy, if a doctor and patient agree that the benefits outweigh the risks, the drug may still be taken during pregnancy. Possible effects of Imitrex on pregnancy are the result of animal studies only.
Fetal and Embryonic Death
USA Today reports that Imitrex taken either orally or intravenously during pregnancy may have the potential to cause embryonic and fetal death, as demonstrated in animal studies. The exact reason why Imitrex had this effect in animal studies is unknown to researchers. Research performed on rabbits showed that intravenous administration in particular caused death of the embryo.
Vascular Defects and Skeletal Abnormalities
According to Safe Fetus, high doses of Imitrex given to pregnant animals have been shown to cause vascular defects, including defects in the umbilical cord, as well as skeletal abnormalities. It is unclear how Imitrex crosses the placenta and in what doses. These effects occurred particularly when the medication was tested on rats, explains eMedTV.
Unknown Effects
Imitrex has not been studied on pregnant women because of the negative results found in animal testing. Glaxo, the manufacturer of Imitrex, keeps a registry that follows pregnant women who take Imitrex. The registry follows fetal outcomes as well. The Illinois Teratogen Information Service reports that no increased risk of birth defects occurs in humans with the use of Imitrex during pregnancy as noted by the Imitrex registry. They indicate it is still unclear, however, whether it is completely safe during pregnancy.
General Side Effects
Side effects that may be experienced while using Imitrex are similar for both pregnant patients and non-pregnant patients. Frequently, a heavy feeling in the chest may occur which may cause chest pain and even nausea, notes Drugs.com. Increased heart rate, digestive issues, numbness in the fingers and toes and muscle pain may also occur.
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