Imitrex, the brand name for sumatriptan, is a medication that is prescribed to treat migraine headaches once they have begun. Specifically, Imitrex operates by narrowing or constricting the blood vessels around the brain which are believed to play a role in migraines. This medication cannot prevent migraines or in any way limit or reduce the number of migraine headaches that you may have; it is for the treatment of a migraine after the headache has started. All medications carry some degree of risk for side effects, and Imitrex is no exception.
Common Side Effects
Commonly reported side effects that usually subside after several days may include muscle aches and fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, or nausea and vomiting. Other possible experiences may be the sensation of warmth or tingling within the skin, flushing as well as the sensation of pressure about certain areas of the body. Other possible common effects may be the sensation of burning or numbness in the throat or sinuses and an unusual taste or aftertaste in the mouth.
Serious Side Effects
More serious possible side effects include a seizure, sudden onset of confusion, disorientation or hallucinations, an increase in heart rate or arrhythmias, and sudden weakness on one side of the body. Additional serious effects that need immediate medical attention are bloody diarrhea, coordination problems, severe chest pain as well as the onset of speech or vision problems and severe continued flushing.
Reaction
The appearance of a rash with itching, breathing problems, or swelling about the face, inside the mouth and throat, are indicative of an adverse allergic reaction instead of a side effect. Get immediate medical attention if you have any of these signs or symptoms. If you have heart disease or risk factors for heart disease, for example, hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking or a family history of heart disease, inform the prescribing physician of these facts early on in the consulting process.
Interactions
Imitrex may interact negatively with several medications, therefore it is important that you give the prescribing physician a complete list of current medications that you are taking. Specifically, Imitrex is documented to negatively interact with antidepressants such as Effexor, Zoloft, Lexapro, Cymbalta, Paxil and Prozac.
Administration
Imitrex may be taken in three different forms: pill, nasal spray and injection. Discuss which form you should take with your doctor.
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