Almotriptan is given to treat migraine headaches in adults. Almotriptan relieves the intensity of the pain and other symptoms including nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity to light, though it does not prevent nor reduce the frequency of attacks. Almotriptan can also be used for cluster headaches. Migraine is believed to be caused by swollen or dilated blood vessels; Almotriptan acts on neurotransmitter serotonin (5HT) receptors in the brain by narrowing those blood vessels. Almotriptan usually takes about an hour to relieve the symptoms.
Almotriptan should only be given when the pain from migraine attack does not respond to regular pain killers like Aspirin, acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen.
ALMOTRIPTAN WARNING
Almotriptan should not be given to those with high blood pressure or who have or are at risk of heart disease or condition. It should also not be used if you have liver or kidney disease.
Almotriptan must not be given for 2 weeks after taking an MAO inhibitor drug such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate.
If you develop severe chest pain after taking Almotriptan, seek medical help right away.
Almotriptan injections should not be injected into a vein. This could result in a serious heart irregularity.
Though rarely, severe and fatal allergic reactions have occurred in people taking Almotriptan. In rare cases, people taking Almotriptan have suffered seizures.
ALMOTRIPTAN SIDE EFFECTS
Common side effects of Almotriptan may include dizziness, nasal discomfort, muscle weakness, nausea, neck pain, numbness, vomiting and temporary rise in blood pressure.
Rare side effects of Almotriptan may include severe allergic reactions, anxiety, asthma, agitation, changes in heart rhythm, confusion, constipation, cough, depression, difficult or painful urination, fatigue, pressure in chest, rapid and throbbing heartbeat, rash, ringing in the ears, tightness in chest, tremors, and vision changes.
ALMOTRIPTAN AND PREGNANCY
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your physician before taking Almotriptan.
Nursing mothers should switch to bottle-feed while taking Almotriptan.
ALMOTRIPTAN INTERACTION
Check with your doctor before combining Almotriptan with the following:
Drugs classified as MAO inhibitors
Ergot-containing drugs such as Cafergot and Ergostat
Luvox
Paxil
Prozac
Zoloft
ALMOTRIPTAN DOSES
Almotriptan is not recommended for children under 18.
ALMOTRIPTAN TABLETS
The usual adult dose is one 6.25-12.50mg tablet taken with meal or milk. Almotriptan should be taken right at the onset of the pain, for better results. The maximum dose for a day should not exceed 12.50mg.
Those with liver disease should take lower doses of Almotriptan Tablets.
ALMOTRIPTAN OVERDOSE
Symptoms of Almotriptan overdose may include convulsions, dilated pupils, inactivity, lack of coordination, paralysis, redness in the arms and legs, skin changes at the site of injection, slow breathing, sluggishness, tremor, nausea and vomiting.
In case of Almotriptan overdose seek medical attention right away.
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