Triptans

Triptans are a type of medication used for the treatment of migraine headaches. Although these medicines cannot prevent migraines, they can help relieve symptoms by narrowing blood vessels in the head that become dilated during a migraine headache. Triptans, which should be taken as soon as you have a migraine, are available in various forms, including tablets, injections, and nasal sprays. Side effects of the medicines will vary depending on the specific form of triptan, but may include nausea, drowsiness, dry mouth, or flushing.

 

What Are Triptans?

Triptans are a class of prescription medications used to treat migraine headaches. They will not prevent migraines but can help to treat a migraine that is already occurring.
 
(Click What Are Triptans Used For? for more information on specific uses of triptans, along with possible off-label uses.)
 

How Do Triptans Work?

Triptans (also known as 5-HT agonists) work to relieve migraine symptoms. During a migraine headache, some of the blood vessels in the head become dilated (wider open than they usually are). Triptans work by narrowing these blood vessels, helping them return to their normal state. This action helps to relieve migraine symptoms.
 

Triptans: When and How Do I Take Them?

Some general considerations for when and how to take triptans include:
 
  • Triptans are meant to be taken during a migraine headache. Take a triptan as soon as possible when you have a migraine.
     
  • Most of these medications are taken by mouth, but some are available as injections or nasal sprays. Some triptans come as orally disintegrating tablets that dissolve rapidly in the mouth.
     
  • Sometimes, your healthcare provider may suggest a second dose of a triptan (after waiting a certain period of time) if your migraine does not go away.
     
  • For triptans to work properly, they must be taken as prescribed.
     
(Triptans Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;