Amerge

Amerge is a prescription drug licensed to treat symptoms of migraine headaches, although it will not prevent migraines from occurring. The drug works to relieve migraine symptoms by narrowing blood vessels in the head that widen during migraines. It's best to take the medication as soon as possible once a migraine has started. Some commonly reported side effects include dizziness, fatigue, and nausea.

Amerge Medication

What Is Amerge?

Amerge^® (naratriptan hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat migraine headaches. The medication will not help to prevent migraines, but it can help alleviate symptoms once the headache begins.

(Click Amerge Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes It?

Amerge is made by GlaxoSmithKline.

How Does Amerge Work?

Amerge is part of a class of migraine medications called 5-HT agonists (more commonly known as triptans). During a migraine headache, some of the blood vessels in the head become dilated (wider than usual). Amerge works by narrowing these blood vessels, helping them return to their normal state. This action helps to relieve migraine symptoms.

Clinical Effects

In studies, 50 to 66 percent of people with migraines had no (or mild) pain within four hours of taking Amerge tablets, compared to only 27 to 34 percent of people who did not take the drug.

When and How to Take It

Some general considerations for when and how to take Amerge include the following:

Take Amerge by mouth as soon as possible once a migraine starts.
Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water or other fluid.
If your headache comes back or does not go away, your healthcare provider may recommend taking a second dose after waiting at least four hours after the first dose. Let your healthcare provider know if Amerge does not work completely after one dose.
For this medication to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. Amerge will not work if you stop taking it.

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