Generic Drugs // Migraines // Sumatriptan (Imitrex)

Imitrex is used for:
The treatment of migraine headaches with or without aura (eg, flashing lights, wavy lines, dark spots). It is also used to treat cluster headaches.Imitrex is a serotonin 5-HT 1receptor agonist ("triptan"). It works by narrowing blood vessels in the brain, which helps to relieve migraine and cluster headaches.

Imitrex is used for:
The treatment of migraine headaches with or without aura (eg, flashing lights, wavy lines, dark spots). It is also used to treat cluster headaches.Imitrex is a serotonin 5-HT 1receptor agonist ("triptan"). It works by narrowing blood vessels in the brain, which helps to relieve migraine and cluster headaches.

How to use Imitrex:
Use Imitrex as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

    * An extra patient leaflet is available with Imitrex . Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.
    * A health care provider will teach you how to use Imitrex . Be sure you understand how to use Imitrex . Follow the procedures you are taught when you use a dose. Contact your health care provider if you have any questions.
    * Do not use Imitrex if it contains particles, is cloudy or discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged.
    * Inject Imitrex just under the skin. Do NOT inject Imitrex into a muscle or a blood vessel. Talk with your health care provider about suitable injection sites, how to load an autoinjector device, and how to give an injection.
    * Imitrex will relieve migraine pain at any time during an attack. It is best to inject a dose of Imitrex as soon as you notice symptoms of a migraine attack.
    * If your migraine symptoms go away and then come back, you may use a second dose as directed by your doctor. Wait at least 1 hour between doses.
    * If your symptoms do not improve after the first injection, do not use a second dose for the same attack. Contact your doctor.
    * Do not use more than 2 doses in a 24-hour period or treat more than 4 headaches within 30 days without checking with your doctor.
    * Do not throw away the autoinjector.
    * Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Ask your health care provider how to dispose of these materials after use. Follow all local rules for disposal.
    * If you miss a dose of Imitrex and you still have a headache, follow your doctor"s dosing instructions. Contact your doctor if you are unsure of what to do if you miss a dose. Do not use Imitrex more often than prescribed. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Imitrex.

Possible side effects of Imitrex:
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

    * Burning, numbness, or tingling of the skin; dizziness; drowsiness; feeling of heaviness, pressure, or tightness; feeling strange; mild, temporary flushing; muscle aches; nausea; neck stiffness; pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site; sick feeling; throat or sinus discomfort; tight feeling in the head; tingling; tiredness; vomiting; warm/hot sensation; weakness.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

    * Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloody diarrhea; chest pain; confusion; fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; hearing problems; numbness or tingling of an arm or leg; one-sided weakness; pain, tightness, or pressure in the jaw, neck, or chest; seizures; severe headache, dizziness, or vomiting; severe or prolonged flushing; severe stomach pain; shortness of breath; speech changes; very cold or blue fingers or toes; vision changes or loss of vision; wheezing.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider.

Proper storage of Imitrex:
Store Imitrex between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not freeze. Do not store at temperatures above 86 degrees F (30 degrees C). Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Imitrex in the case provided. Throw away expired medicine as directed by your doctor (the expiration date is printed on the treatment pack). Do not throw away the autoinjector. Keep Imitrex out of the reach of children and away from pets.