Imitrex for Migraines

Many people experience migraine relief when taking Imitrex. The drug, which is available in tablet, nasal spray, or injectable form, works by narrowing blood vessels believed to become dilated during a migraine. When returned to their normal state, migraine symptoms often improve. Although the medication can be taken once a migraine starts, it cannot be taken to prevent migraines.

An Overview of Migraines and Imitrex

Imitrex® (sumatriptan succinate) is a prescription drug used for the treatment of migraine headaches once they start. The drug does not help prevent migraines.
 
A migraine headache is a severe, intense, throbbing pain felt on one, and sometimes both, sides of the head. The pain is mostly in the front around the temples or behind one eye or ear. Besides pain, other migraine symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine pain can last a few hours or up to one or two days.
 
Migraine research scientists do not know the specific cause of migraines (see Migraine Causes), although they believe that overly sensitive blood vessels may play a role.
 
Treatment options for migraine relief will depend on a number of factors, including their severity and frequency. For some people, over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may be effective. For other people, stronger migraine medications are needed. One option is Imitrex.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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