Imitrex, or sumatriptan, is a medicine often prescribed for treating migraines. It comes in an oral tablet and a nasal spray. According to Drugs.com, it is thought to work by narrowing the blood vessels around the brain. It is taken during a headache to treat symptoms, as it does not prevent the headache from occurring. Symptoms that may be reduced or eliminated with the use of this medication may include pain, nausea or light and sound sensitivity.
Signs of Overdose
Signs of an Imitrex overdose can vary for each individual, according to Drugs.com. Symptoms may include tremors or shaking, skin redness, breathing difficulties, blue-colored lips or fingernails, vision problems, watery eyes or mouth, weakness, lack of coordination or seizures, according to Drugs.com. Medical attention is required for an individual who is experiencing any of these symptoms.
Potential Symptoms of Overdose
Imitrex has the potential for mild and serious side effects. If an individual overdoses on the medication these side effects may be more severe. Mild nausea or vomiting are common side effects of this drug. An individual who has overdosed on the medication may experience prolonged nausea or severe vomiting. Drugs.com points out other examples of mild side effects that may be exacerbated by overdose including diarrhea, muscle pain, warmth or redness under the skin, cold-like symptoms, burning or numbness in the nose after using the nasal spray, dizziness or sleepiness and drooling or sweating.
Serious Side Effects
Regardless of whether an individual has overdosed or is just experiencing a severe reaction to Imitrex, the following side effects identified by RxList.com are rare and require medical attention: chest pain or heavy feeling in the chest, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, sudden confusion, problems with vision, slurred speech, balance or coordination issues, change in heart rate, hallucinations, severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, convulsions and numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes.
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