Brand Names:
Imitrex, Sumavel, Alsuma
What is it?
Sumatriptan belongs to a group of drugs called the triptans. This drug helps relieve a migraine headache when it starts, but doesn’t prevent or decrease the number of migraines you have. This drug should only be taken when you start to feel a migraine coming on. It is available in a tablet, nose spray and a shot.
What’s In It For Me?
If your pain is relieved, you should be able to continue your normal activities and without pain, nausea and vomiting.
The Good
Sumatriptin is very efffective for many people. If simpler drugs don’t work for you, your doctor may try Sumatriptan next. Because it has been available for a long time, Sumatriptan has been tested a lot and we know it works well. If your headaches are severe, the shot form of this drug may be better and it starts working faster.
The Bad
Sumatriptan has some common side effects worth mentioning. Some people get dizzy, flushed or feel tight in the the chest. . Less commonly, it can make people drowsy. All of these side effects last a short time and are not serious. The shot form of the drug can cause redness or swelling where you inject it.
For The Cynic
We prefer trying to change your lifestyle to prevent migraines so you don’t have to use drugs like sumatriptan.
The Cost
Sumatriptan is the cheapest triptan in the group, but as of October of 2011 it still pricey. However, it is available as a generic, so if you have insurance that covers this medication it would be a generic copay.
This can be a great choice for treating migraines after trying other basic options first. It is Expensive
Written by:Megan Truskoski PharmD Candidateand edited by ProfJameson
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