Zomig Uses

Zomig is not designed to prevent migraines, but it can relieve the symptoms of a migraine as it occurs. Among the common symptoms of a migraine are headache pain on one side of the head and sensitivity to light or sound. Zomig is approved for use only in adults. A previous study of Zomig uses in children ages 12 to 17 showed that the drug was not effective for this age group. One off-label use for Zomig is the treatment of cluster headaches.

 

What Is Zomig Used For?

Zomig® (zolmitriptan) is a prescription medication that is used for the treatment of migraine headaches. Zomig will not help to prevent migraines, but it can help to treat a migraine that is already occurring. In addition to Zomig tablets, Zomig® Nasal Spray and Zomig ZMT® (orally disintegrating tablets that dissolve in the mouth) are also available.
 

Using Zomig for Migraines

Migraine headaches are different from other headaches in many ways. Some of the most common migraine symptoms include:
 
  • 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 (for example, 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).
 
Zomig is approved to treat migraines with or without an aura. The medicine is part of a class of migraine drugs 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 the symptoms of a migraine.
 
Due to the way it works, Zomig is not useful for migraine prevention. Zomig is taken to lessen the pain and other symptoms of a migraine once it starts.
 
(Zomig Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;