Axert (Almotriptan)

Description

Axert (Almotriptan) is a medication used to treat migraine headaches as they happen. It doesn't stop migraines from occurring or reduce how many you get. Almotriptan works by affecting a natural chemical in the body called serotonin, which helps narrow blood vessels in the brain and eases migraine symptoms. It is most effective when taken right at the start of a migraine attack. While it might not work for everyone, many people find Almotriptan helpful for relieving their migraine pain.

Directions

Axert should be taken by mouth at the first sign of a migraine headache. The typical starting dose is between 6.25 mg and 12.5 mg. If the migraine goes away but returns, an additional dose can be taken after two hours. However, the total dosage should not exceed 25 mg within a 24-hour period. It is important to note that Axert is intended for treating migraine attacks, not for preventing them. Individuals with a history of migraines, whether or not they experience warning signs, may find this medication helpful. Before starting Axert, a consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended to ensure it is safe, especially for those with heart-related health concerns.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Axert is Almotriptan.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Known hypersensitivity to Almotriptan or any inactive ingredients in the medication
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Past history of stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)
• History of ischemic heart disease, coronary artery vasospasm, or other significant underlying cardiovascular conditions.
• Known peripheral vascular disease, including ischemic bowel disease
• Use within 24 hours of another 5-HT1 agonist or an ergotamine-containing or ergot-type medication
• Use for hemiplegic or basilar migraine

Cautions

• Before taking Axert, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Axert can cause serious heart problems, including heart attacks and abnormal heart rhythms. These events have happened within hours of taking the medication—even in people without a history of heart disease. If you experience chest pain, pressure, shortness of breath, or other signs of heart trouble after taking Axert, seek medical help immediately.
• Do not take Axert if you have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease or have had a heart attack, angina, or a stroke. It should also be avoided if you're at high risk for heart problems (e.g., high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, or a family history of heart disease) unless a doctor has confirmed your heart is healthy.
• Some people feel tightness, pressure, or pain in the chest, throat, neck, or jaw after taking Axert. These sensations may or may not be related to the heart, but it’s important to report them to your doctor, especially if they keep happening.
• Serious brain-related events like strokes and brain bleeding have occurred in people taking triptan medications like Axert. This is rare, but it can be fatal. If your headache feels different than usual, or you're experiencing confusion, weakness, or vision problems, contact your doctor right away.
• Axert can cause a rise in blood pressure, even in people without a history of high blood pressure. If you already have uncontrolled high blood pressure, you should not take Axert.
• Triptans like Axert can cause narrowing of blood vessels in places other than the heart, which may lead to stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, or problems with blood flow in the hands or feet (e.g., coldness or numbness). Call your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.
• Taking Axert with antidepressants like SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) or SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine) can lead to a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. Watch for symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, high body temperature, fast heartbeat, muscle stiffness, or nausea. Seek medical help right away if you notice these.
• Using Axert too often may make your headaches worse or more frequent. If you're needing it more than 10 days per month, talk to your doctor about other options.
• If you have liver or kidney disease, Axert should be used with caution, as your body may not process the medication as effectively.
• In animal studies, Axert built up in pigmented (melanin-rich) tissues like the eye. While no vision problems were reported in human studies, long-term use could potentially cause eye effects. Let your doctor know if you experience any vision changes.
• In one animal study, some dogs developed slight cloudiness in the cornea after long-term use of Almotriptan. This went away after stopping the drug. Although this hasn’t been seen in humans, report any vision issues to your doctor.
• Axert contains a sulfonyl group, so if you’ve had an allergic reaction to sulfa drugs in the past, talk to your doctor before using it.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Axert in adults include nausea, dry mouth, and tingling or burning sensations (paresthesia). In adolescents, dizziness, sleepiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and paresthesia are most frequently reported. These side effects are usually mild and temporary but should be discussed with your doctor if they become bothersome.

More serious side effects of Axert may involve problems with circulation, including Raynaud’s syndrome and peripheral vascular ischemia, which can cause changes in skin color or pain in the legs and feet. Rare but serious conditions include serotonin syndrome (especially when combined with certain antidepressants), gastrointestinal ischemia, and medication overuse headaches. Allergic reactions are also possible, particularly in people with sulfa allergies. Seek medical help right away if you experience swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, or an itchy rash.

References

1. Axert (Almotriptan) Product Monograph. Titusville, NJ: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2017.
2. Axert (Almotriptan) Drug Label Information. Boca Raton, FL: Physicians Total Care, Inc.; 2012.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....