Sumatriptan
Information about Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan uses
Sumatriptan is used in Acute migraine headache. It relieves the symptoms of migraine and prevents the attack from becoming worse.
How sumatriptan works
Migraine headaches are thought to result from the dilatation (swelling) of blood vessels in the head. Sumatriptan works by constricting (narrowing) the blood vessels in the head, stops transmission of pain signals to the brain, and blocks the release of chemicals that cause nausea and other migraine symptoms. This relieves the migraine attack.
Common side effects of sumatriptan
Breathlessness, Vomiting, Nausea, Burning sensation, General discomfort, Itching, Urticaria, Rash, Inflammation of vein, Dry lips, Skin peeling, Dry skin, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Low blood platelets, Decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), Anaphylactic reaction, Hepatitis (viral infection of liver), Encephalopathy, Convulsion, Coma, Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin)
Available Medicine for Sumatriptan
Expert advice for Sumatriptan
- You have been prescribed Sumatriptan for treatment of migraine headaches.
- Some tips that may help avoid a migraine attack:
- Have your meals at the same time everyday
- Avoid bright lights and extreme temperatures
- Avoid loud music and noisy places
- Avoid chocolates, cheese, processed food, alcohol and smoking
- Get enough sleep and avoid stress
- It may cause sleepiness. Don't drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
- Notify your doctor if your migraine occurs more often after starting the medication.
- Notify your doctor if you have stomach pain, headache, bloody diarrhoea or worsening high blood pressure.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease or stroke.
- This medication does not prevent migraine attacks from happening.
Frequently asked questions for Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan
Q. How soon should I take Sumatriptan when attack starts?
Once your migraine headache has started, take Sumatriptan as soon as possible. Do not use it to prevent an attack. Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Q. Can Sumatriptan increase my Blood Preasure?
Yes, Sumatriptan can cause an increase in blood pressure. However, it is does not occur in everyone. But, you should keep a check on your blood pressure during therapy with Sumatriptan.
Q. What are the symptoms of headache caused due to medication overuse?
If you are having frequent or daily headaches despite (or because of) the regular use of headache medications, it is suggestive of medication overuse headache. You should consult your doctor who may discontinue the medication for sometime.