Imitrex is given to treat migraine headaches in adults. Imitrex 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. Imitrex can also be used for cluster headaches. Migraine is believed to be caused by swollen or dilated blood vessels; Imitrex acts on neurotransmitter serotonin (5HT) receptors in the brain by narrowing those blood vessels. Imitrex usually takes about an hour to relieve the symptoms.
Imitrex should only be given when the pain from migraine attack does not respond to regular pain killers like Aspirin, acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen.
IMITREX WARNING
Imitrex 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.
Imitrex 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 Imitrex, seek medical
help right away.
Imitrex 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 Imitrex. In rare cases, people taking Imitrex have suffered
seizures.
IMITREX SIDE EFFECTS
Common side effects of Imitrex may include dizziness, nasal discomfort, muscle weakness, nausea, neck pain, numbness, vomiting and temporary rise in blood pressure.
Rare side effects of Imitrex 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.
IMITREX AND PREGNANCY
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your
physician before taking Imitrex.
Nursing mothers should switch to bottle-feed while taking
Imitrex.
IMITREX INTERACTION
Check with your doctor before combining Imitrex with the following:
Drugs classified as MAO inhibitors
Ergot-containing drugs such as
Cafergot and Ergostat
Luvox
Paxil
Prozac
Zoloft
IMITREX DOSES
Imitrex is not recommended for children under 18.
IMITREX INJECTION
The maximum single recommended adult dose is 6mg injected under the
skin. Injection should not be given intravenous.
The maximum dose that may be given within 24 hour period is two 6mg
injections taken at least 1 hour apart.
IMITREX TABLETS
The usual adult dose is one 25-100mg tablet taken with meal or
milk. The maximum dose for a day should not exceed 200mg.
Those with liver disease should not take more than 50mg of Imitrex
Tablets at one time.
IMITREX NASAL SPRAY
The recommended adult dose ranges from 5-20mg taken at the onset of
the attack and repeated once, if necessary, 2 hours later. Doses are
usually taken as a single spray in one nostril, but if a 10mg dose works
best for you, you can take it as a 5mg spray in each nostril. Do not use
more than 20mg at a time, or take more than 40 mg per day.
IMITREX OVERDOSE
Symptoms of Imitrex 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 Imitrex overdose seek medical attention right away.
Back to Drug List
Disclaimer:
The
information provided in this website is not intended to be used for
self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Please consult your licensed health care
provider regarding all medical problems. You should never stop taking a prescription
drug or alter the dosage or dosing schedule without first consulting your
physician or health-care provider.
© 2000-2006 TheMedicine.NET