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Treximet
(Click Treximet Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Treximet is made by GlaxoSmithKline.
Sumatriptan belongs to 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 become dilated (wider open than they usually are). Sumatriptan works by narrowing these blood vessels, helping them return to their normal state. This action helps to relieve migraine symptoms.
Naproxen sodium belongs to a group of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). It helps to relieve migraine pain by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals known as prostaglandins.
In one study, up to 65 percent of people with migraines had no (or mild) pain within two hours of taking Treximet, compared to just 55 percent of those taking sumatriptan alone, 44 percent of those taking naproxen sodium alone, or 28 percent of those taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients). Additionally, Treximet was more effective for keeping people pain-free for 24 hours after taking a dose, compared to sumatriptan, naproxen sodium, or placebo (in other words, it seemed to work better for preventing the migraine from returning).
Some general considerations for when and how to use the medication include the following:
- Treximet comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth as soon as possible once a migraine starts.
- Swallow Treximet tablets whole with a drink of water or other fluids.
- Treximet can be taken with or without food. Because one of the components of Treximet (naproxen sodium) can be irritating to the stomach, it may be a good idea to take your dosage with a little food (although this may not be possible due to nausea from the migraine).
- Do not take two doses of Treximet within two hours of each other.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
There is only one standard recommended dose for Treximet. As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Treximet can cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include, but are not limited to:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Chest, neck, or jaw pain.
(Click Treximet Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Treximet?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to using this medication if you have:
- Heart problems of any kind, especially a history of heart disease, angina, an irregular heart rhythm, or a heart attack
- A history of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA or "mini-stroke"), or other bleeding in the brain (such as a subarachnoid hemorrhage)
- Congestive heart failure (CHF)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Certain blood vessel conditions, such as peripheral vascular disease, ischemic bowel disease, or Raynaud's phenomenon
- Kidney problems, including kidney failure (renal failure)
- Liver problems, including liver failure or cirrhosis
- A history of seizures or epilepsy
- Asthma
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much of this medication may experience the following symptoms:
- Seizures or shakiness
- Not being able to move or feel (paralysis)
- Swelling in the arms or legs
- Wide or dilated pupils
- Increased saliva and watery eyes
- Lethargy or drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Chest, throat, or stomach pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Kidney problems, including kidney failure
- Breathing problems.
Treximet tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The tablets should be stored in their original dispenser packaging. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What If I Miss a Dose of Treximet?
If you do not take your Treximet as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
At this time, there are no generic versions of Treximet licensed for sale (see Generic Treximet for more information).
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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