IMITREX
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO SUPPLEMENT, NOT SUBSTITUTE
FOR, THE EXPERTISE AND JUDGMENT OF YOUR PHYSICIAN, PHARMACIST OR
OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. IT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO
INDICATE THAT USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR
YOU. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING IMITREX.
SUMATRIPTAN - ORAL TABLET (sue-muh-TRIP-tan)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Imitrex
USES:
IMITREX is used to treat migraine headache attacks once they occur.
It is not effective in preventing migraines. This medication is not
to be used for other types of headaches.
HOW TO TAKE IMITREX:
One dose is taken by mouth at the first signs of a migraine attack.
If you must take a second dose, do so exactly as instructed by your
doctor. Do not take more than 200mg in a 24 hour period. Tablets are
to be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew
them.
SIDE EFFECTS:
IMITREX may initially cause flushing, dizziness, weakness, nausea,
drowsiness, stiffness, or feelings of tingling, heat, fatigue. If
any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your
doctor. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this
drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic
reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble
breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing heart disease,
coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, stroke, abnormal heart
rhythm, kidney disease, liver disease or if you have any allergies.
There have been rare reports of those with sulfa drug allergies
having allergic reactions to sumatriptan. Consult your doctor or
pharmacist. Since IMITREX may cause drowsiness, use caution
operating machinery or engaging in activities requiring alertness
and avoid alcohol because it may increase drowsiness/dizziness
effects. Sumatriptan should be used during pregnancy only when
clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
IMITREX is excreted into breast milk. The effects on nursing infants
are unknown at this time. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication
you may take especially ergotamine containing medication, other
medication for prevention of treatment of headaches or MAO
inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline,
tranylcypromine). Do not take MAO inhibitors with sumatriptan or use
sumatriptan within 2 weeks of stopping use of MAO inhibitors. Do not
take any ergotamine-containing medication and sumatriptan within 24
hours of each other. Also, report the use of all antidepressants or
any medications used for weight control. If you are unsure about the
types of medications you take, ask your care provider or pharmacist.
It is recommended to avoid consumption of alcohol while taking
IMITREX. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or
pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center
or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include
tremor, chest pain, slowed breathing, and seizures.
NOTES:
IMITREX is used to relieve a migraine attack in progress. It is not
effective in preventing migraine attacks.
MISSED DOSE:
Take IMITREX only when a migraine attack occurs as directed. This is
not taken routinely. Never "double-up" the dose.
STORAGE:
Store IMITREX at 15 to 30 degrees C (59 to 86 degrees F) away from
heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all
medications out of the reach of children.
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