Zomig
® (
zolmitriptan) is a prescription medication that is used to treat
migraine headaches. Zomig will not help to prevent
migraines, but it can help to treat a migraine that has already started.
In addition to Zomig tablets, Zomig® Nasal Spray and Zomig ZMT® (orally disintegrating tablets that dissolve in the mouth) are also available.
(Click Zomig Uses for more information on what Zomig is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Zomig is made by AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals.
Zomig 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 become dilated (wider than they usually are). Zomig works by narrowing these blood vessels, helping them return to their normal state. This action helps to relieve
migraine symptoms.
In previous studies, 59 percent to 67 percent of people with migraines had no (or mild) pain within two hours of taking Zomig tablets, compared to only 16 percent to 44 percent of people who did not take Zomig. Similar results were seen in studies of Zomig ZMT tablets and Zomig Nasal Spray.
When and How to Take Zomig
Some general considerations for when and how to take Zomig include:
- Zomig comes in regular tablets and as orally disintegrating tablets (ZMTs) that dissolve in the mouth quickly. Zomig also comes in a nasal spray.
- Zomig should be taken as soon as possible once a migraine starts.
- Swallow Zomig tablets whole with a drink of water or other fluids. Zomig ZMT tablets should be placed on the tongue, where they will be quickly dissolved. Zomig ZMT tablets do not need to be taken with water.
- Each Zomig Nasal Spray device contains only one dose of Zomig. Spray the dose into one nostril while pressing on the other side of your nose, tilting your head back slightly and breathing in gently through your nose. After the spray, keep your head back and breathe gently through your mouth for about five seconds.
- If your headache comes back or does not go away, your healthcare provider may recommend taking a second dose of Zomig after waiting at least two hours from the time you took the first dose. Let your healthcare provider know if Zomig does not work completely after one dose.
- For Zomig to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Zomig will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Zomig your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to Zomig
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be currently taking.
As always, do not adjust your Zomig dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
(Click Zomig Dosage for more information about dosing for Zomig.)
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Zomig. However, not everyone who takes Zomig will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate Zomig well. When Zomig side effects occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
Some of the most common side effects of Zomig include:
- Unusual taste (for Zomig Nasal Spray)
- Dizziness
- Abnormal sensations such as tingling, burning, or pricking (paresthesia)
- Neck pain, jaw pain, or throat pain (or tightness or pressure)
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Drowsiness.
(Click Zomig Side Effects to learn about the specific side effects of Zomig, including serious side effects to look out for. You can also read about other possible side effects by going to:
Drug Interactions With Zomig
Zomig can potentially interact with a number of other medicines.
Zomig: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Zomig if you have:
- Heart problems of any kind, especially a history of heart disease, angina, an irregular heart rhythm (including Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome), or a history of a heart attack
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol
- Certain blood vessel conditions, such as peripheral vascular disease, ischemic bowel disease, or Raynaud's phenomenon
- Diabetes
- A history of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA or "mini-stroke"), or other bleeding in the brain (such as a subarachnoid hemorrhage)
- Liver problems, including liver failure or cirrhosis
- Phenylketonuria
- Depression
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also let your healthcare provider know if you:
You should also tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
In previous studies, large doses of Zomig (up to 50 mg) did not cause any overdose symptoms other than drowsiness.
If you happen to overdose on Zomig, seek medical attention immediately.
Zomig should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture or heat. Keep Zomig tablets and Zomig ZMT tablets in their original blister package until you need to use them.
Keep Zomig and all other medications out of the reach of children.
Zomig: What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
Zomig is not intended to be taken on a regular basis. Zomig should only be taken during a
migraine headache.
Zomig tablets are available in two strengths:
- Zomig 2.5 mg tablets
- Zomig 5 mg tablets.
Zomig ZMT orally disintegrating tablets are available in two strengths:
- Zomig ZMT 2.5 mg tablets
- Zomig ZMT 5 mg tablets.
Zomig Nasal Spray is available in only one strength -- Zomig Nasal Spray 5 mg.
There is currently no generic Zomig licensed for sale.
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