IMITREX / IMITREX DF (Sumatriptan)

What is this medication? 

IMITREX DF (Sumatriptan)
Antimigraine; Serotonin 5-HT1B/1D Receptor Agonist

IMITREX DF (Sumatriptan) is officially indicated to treat moderate to severe acute migraines and to treat acute cluster headaches depending on the dosage form.  It is also prescribed off-label for abortive therapy of migraine associated cyclic vomiting syndrome. 

How does this medication work? 

IMITREX DF (Sumatriptan) is a selective agonist for serotonin 5-HT1B and 5-HT1D receptors.  These are located on intracranial blood vessels and sensory nerves of the trigeminal system and activating these receptors causes vasoconstriction and reduces neurogenic inflammation associated with antidromic neuronal transmission.  These actions are thought to be the cause of migraine relief.

How should I take this medication? 

Oral: Take 25-100 mg per dose, can repeat dose in 2 hours or later if only partial relief or if symptoms return to a maximum of 200mg/24 hours.

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, use at first sign of migraine symptoms.          

You Need to Avoid: Do not use triptans more than 10 times per month to avoid medication overuse headache. 

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting IMITREX DF (Sumatriptan), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take (MAO inhibitors/ergotamine derivatives), if you have any cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, liver disease, a history of hemiplegic migraine, ophthalmoplegic migraine, a seizure disorder, are pregnant, or breastfeeding.  This medication has risk of causing serotonin syndrome especially if combined with other serotonergic drugs.  Before triptans are used a full cardiac workup including ECG may be considered.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Pain, sensation of pressure in head, tingling sensation, chest pain. 

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for IMITREX DF (Sumatriptan), only common ones.