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Imitrex

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.