Imitrex is a prescription drug used for the treatment of migraine headaches once they start. The drug does not help prevent migraines. A migraine occurs when some of the blood vessels in the head become dilated. Imitrex works by narrowing these blood vessels, helping return them to their normal state. Tingling, dizziness, and chest discomfort are a few common Imitrex side effects. Imitrex -- which comes in a tablet form, a nasal spray, and an injection -- should be taken only during a migraine, not on a regular basis.
What Is Imitrex?
Imitrex
® (
sumatriptan succinate) is a prescription medication that is used to treat
migraine headaches. Imitrex will not help to prevent migraines, but it can help to treat a
migraine that is already occurring. The injectable form of Imitrex is also approved for the acute treatment of
cluster headaches.
(Click Imitrex Uses for more information on what Imitrex is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Imitrex is made by GlaxoSmithKline.
Imitrex is part of a class of
migraine medications called 5-HT agonists (or more commonly known as "
triptans"). During a migraine headache, some of the blood vessels in the head can become dilated (wider than they usually are). Imitrex works by narrowing these blood vessels, helping them return to their normal state. This action helps to relieve
migraine symptoms.
In one study, 52 to 62 percent of people with migraines had no (or mild) pain within two hours of taking Imitrex tablets, compared to only 27 percent who did not take Imitrex. Within four hours, as many as 79 percent of people who had taken Imitrex had
migraine relief, compared to just 38 percent of people not taking Imitrex. Similar results were seen in studies of Imitrex Nasal Spray and Imitrex Injection.
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print