Possible Side Effects of Frovatriptan

Frova is the brand name for frovatriptan in the United States. It is used in the treatment of severe migraines. Along with reducing or eliminating the pain of a migraine, frovatriptan also may help lessen symptoms of migraines such as light sensitivity, auditory sensitivity, vomiting and nausea. It is not prescribed for non-migraine pain.

Cardiac

Frovatriptan has been shown to produce life-threatening cardiac conditions in some users. These types of problems occur only very rarely, according to RxList.com, but should be taken into consideration when taking this medication. Such cardiac problems may include ventricular fibrillation, which is a condition in which the heart beat accelerates; coronary artery vasospasm, or severe chest pain; tachycardia, also known as a rapid heartbeat; transient myocardial ischemia, in which not enough blood and therefore oxygen is being transmitted throughout the body; and even myocardial infarction, or heart attacks. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any type of chest pain associated with the use of frovatriptan.

Central Nervous System

Side effects from frovatriptan usage also may occur in the central nervous system. These types of side effects may include hypoesthesia, which is a diminished sense of sensation or touch; dysesthesia, which is an unusual and generally unpleasant bodily sensation; body tremors; aggravation of migraine pain; paralysis of the tongue; vertigo; problems with speech; ataxia, which is a lack of coordination; and unusual and uncontrollable muscle contractions.

Psychiatric Side Effects

Frovatriptan use also may cause some psychiatric difficulties as well. These may include unusual dreams, depression, insomnia, confusion, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, euphoria, nervousness, amnesia, agitation and depersonalization.

Other Side Effects

Most other side effects from frovatriptan are less serious and probably will disappear with continued use. Your physician may have recommendations to cope with these or may want to change medications if these persist past the initial phase of drug usage. They include drowsiness, acidic stomach, sensations of tingling, belching, burning sensations, indigestion, bone pain, abdominal pain, nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, sensation of being cold, fatigue, sensation of being hot that may be associated with bodily flushing in the chest, arms, neck or face, and headaches.

References

Article reviewed by Dionne Allyson Last updated on: Nov 30, 2009

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