Imitrex (Sumatriptan)

Description

Imitrex, which is the brand name for Sumatriptan, is a medication used to help relieve the pain of migraine headaches. It works by acting like a natural substance in the brain called serotonin, which can help reduce headache pain. Imitrex is not meant to prevent migraines or treat cluster headaches. Adults who have migraines, with or without warning signs (known as aura), can use Imitrex to find relief from their symptoms.

Directions

Take Imitrex at the first sign of a migraine headache, or as directed by a healthcare professional. The standard dosage ranges from 25 mg to 100 mg. Patients typically begin with a 50 mg dose, which they can increase to 100 mg if their symptoms don't improve. Some individuals may require the lower, 25 mg dose for relief. Swallow the tablet whole with water—do not split, chew, or crush it. If symptoms persist or return after the initial dose, you may take a second dose after two hours; however, do not exceed 200 mg in a 24-hour period. Remember, this medication is not for routine use, so only use it when a migraine attack occurs.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Imitrex is Sumatriptan.

Contraindications

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

• A history of heart disease including coronary artery issues or spasms
• Conditions like Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome or other disorders affecting heart conduction pathways
• Previous strokes transient ischemic attacks hemiplegic migraines or basilar migraines
• Problems with blood circulation in the extremities
• Ischemic bowel disease
• High blood pressure that is not under control
• Use of another 5-HT1 agonist such as another triptan or an ergotamine medication within the last 24 hours
• Use of monoamine oxidase-A inhibitors within the past two weeks
• Allergic reactions to Imitrex which can lead to severe swelling or anaphylactic reactions
• Significant liver impairment

Cautions

• Before taking Imitrex, 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

• Imitrex can affect your heart, especially if you already have heart disease or risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, or if you’re over 40. In rare cases, people have had heart attacks or dangerous heart rhythms after taking Imitrex—even those with no prior heart history.
• Life-threatening heart rhythm problems have been reported after taking medications like Imitrex. These include conditions like ventricular fibrillation (a serious rhythm disorder) and Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.
• Rarely, stroke or bleeding in the brain has occurred in people taking Imitrex. Sometimes these events happened because the original symptoms were mistakenly thought to be a migraine. Imitrex should not be used if you’ve ever had a stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA or mini-stroke).
• Imitrex can cause narrowing of blood vessels beyond the heart, which can lead to problems like poor circulation in the hands or feet, abdominal pain, or bloody diarrhea. Very rarely, it has been linked to vision loss.
• Taking migraine medications too often (more than 10 days a month) can actually lead to worse headaches over time, known as medication overuse headache. If your headaches are becoming more frequent, let your doctor know.
• Using Imitrex with antidepressants like SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAO inhibitors can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a rare but serious condition. Watch for symptoms like confusion, fast heartbeat, shaking, high fever, muscle twitching, or diarrhea.
• Imitrex may raise blood pressure. In rare cases, this can be severe. If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, you should not take Imitrex.
• Seizures have happened in some people after using Imitrex, even those without a history of epilepsy. If you’ve had seizures in the past or have conditions that might increase your risk, use Imitrex with caution and let your doctor know.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Imitrex include tingling or numbness in the fingers or toes, a warm or cold sensation, and feelings of weakness, drowsiness, or fatigue. Some people may also experience dizziness or discomfort in the neck, throat, jaw, or chest. These effects are typically mild and temporary. Let your doctor know if they become bothersome or persistent.

Imitrex may also cause serious side effects, such as poor circulation in the limbs, gastrointestinal or colon-related issues, and serotonin syndrome—especially when taken with certain antidepressants. Signs of serious reactions can include severe stomach pain, numbness or color changes in your legs or feet, or mental changes like hallucinations. Using Imitrex too often may lead to worsening headaches, known as medication overuse headaches. Rarely, seizures and severe allergic reactions such as swelling of the mouth or throat have occurred.

References

1. Imitrex (Sumatriptan) Product Monograph. Research Triangle Park, NC: GlaxoSmithKline; 2020.
2. Imitrex (Sumatriptan) Drug Label Information. Durham, NC: GlaxoSmithKline; 2024.

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....