Triptan Uses: An Overview
Triptans are a class of prescription medications used to treat
migraine headaches. Triptans will not help prevent
migraines but can help to treat a migraine that is already occurring.
Using Triptans for Migraines
- Headache pain on one side of the head
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Throbbing headache pain
- Upset stomach (nausea) and vomiting
- Unusual vision changes.
Some people may have an aura before their migraines occur. An aura can be any unusual sign that a migraine is about to happen, including vision changes, numbness, tingling, or speech changes. The most common type of aura is visual (seeing spots, tunnel vision, or other vision changes). Some people have
migraine triggers, which are certain foods, drinks, or situations that seem to lead to a migraine
(see Migraine Diet for more information).
Triptans are approved for migraines with or without aura. 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 the symptoms of a migraine.
Due to the way they work, triptans will not help with
migraine prevention. They are taken to lessen the pain and other symptoms of a migraine once it starts.