Precautions and Warnings With Triptans

It is important to be aware of the precautions and warnings with triptans before starting treatment. For example, triptans have been known to increase the risk of having a heart attack or vision problems. Also, triptans are not appropriate for everyone. Patients with untreated high blood pressure, severe kidney or liver problems, or a history of angina should avoid taking these drugs.

Triptan Medications

Triptans: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

Prior to taking a triptan, you should tell your healthcare provider 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)
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
Epilepsy
Depression
Gone through menopause
Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:

Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
Are breastfeeding
Smoke
Have a family history of heart disease.

Also, tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you may be taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

(Precautions and Warnings With Triptans Continued: Page 2)