Sumatriptan Tablets (50mg & 100mg) for Migraine

Treatment Details

Treatment Details
Overview
Side Effects
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Migraine relief with Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan is a widely used medication for the treatment of migraines. It belongs to the class of drugs known as triptans, which are specifically designed to address migraine symptoms. This medication works by constricting blood vessels and stabilising brain chemicals, providing relief from migraine pain and associated symptoms. Sumatriptan is available in both generic and branded versions, with the branded version typically being more expensive. It serves as an effective option for migraine relief, especially when standard painkillers are not effective.
How does Sumatriptan work to treat migraines?
One of the primary causes of a migraine is the widening of the brain’s blood vessels. Sumatriptan migraine relief tablets work by:
- Stimulating the serotonin receptors in your brain, causing the muscles surrounding the blood vessels in the brain to contract
- Stabilising some of the chemical changes that occur in the brain during a migraine
Sumatriptan takes around 30 minutes to work, so it’s best to take it as soon as your migraine starts
Taking Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan migraine relief tablets are available by prescription only. You can order them through The Independent Pharmacy following a free online assessment to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you. They come in two strengths:
50mg — a good starting dose for most people. This should relieve most migraine symptoms without the need for a repeat dose.
100mg — for severe migraines, or if 50mg tablets don’t provide enough relief.
Your GP will usually help you to find the best dose for your migraines after you are first diagnosed. Both strengths can be safely taken with other painkillers or anti-sickness medicines if needed.

Type of medicine	Seratonin Receptor Agonists (Triptan)
Works by	It causes the blood vessels in the brain to narrow helping to reduce headache migraine symptoms.
Active ingredient	Sumatriptan succinate
Effective within	30 - 60 minutes
Pack size	6 Tablets
Strength	50mg, 100mg
Generic	Yes
Use with alcohol	Check with your GP or pharmacist

Sumatriptan side effects
The side effects of Sumatriptan can include pain, heaviness, pressure or tightness in the chest, throat or other parts of the body, or unusual sensations, including numbness, tingling and warmth or cold. These effects may be intense but generally pass quickly. Please read the Patient Information Leaflet enclosed with your medicines for a full list of side effects.
Other common side effects include:
· Feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting), although this may be due to the migraine itself
· Tiredness or drowsiness
· Dizziness, feeling weak, or getting hot flushes
· Temporary increase in blood pressure
· Shortness of breath
If you feel pain or tightness in your chest after you use sumatriptan, do not panic, the symptoms may be intense but they usually pass quickly. If they do not pass quickly or they become severe, get medical help immediately.
If you take Sumatriptan 100mg tablets and you find that your medicine is effective but you get mild unwanted side effects, you may wish to lower the strength of your treatment to Sumatriptan 50mg tablets to see if they are still effective without the side effects.
Sumatriptan directions
Take ONE tablet at the onset of symptoms, dose may be repeated after at least 2 hours if migraine symptoms return. Maximum dose is 300mg in 24 hours (three 100mg tablets or six 50mg tablets).
Sumatriptan (Imigran) usually starts to work after 30 minutes. It does not work for everyone. Where it does not work alternative 'triptans' are worth trying.
Sumatriptan should not be taken with other 'triptans' or with medication containing ergotamine.
Patient Information leaflet: https://products.tevauk.com/mediafile/id/53172.pdf
NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/migraine/

Frequently asked questions

How does Sumatriptan work to treat migraines?
Sumatriptan stimulates serotonin receptors in the brain, causing the muscles surrounding blood vessels to contract, relieving migraine symptoms.
Is Sumatriptan available over-the-counter?
Sumatriptan is a prescription-only medication and should be obtained following consultation. Start your consultation now to find our what treatment is most suitable for your condition.
Sumatriptan is a prescription-only medication and should be obtained following consultation. Start your consultation now to find our what treatment is most suitable for your condition.
Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, tiredness, and temporary increases in blood pressure. These effects are usually mild and temporary.
How should I take Sumatriptan tablets?
Take one tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms, with a maximum dose of 300mg in 24 hours. It's best to take Sumatriptan as soon as the migraine starts.
Can Sumatriptan be taken with other medications?
Sumatriptan can be taken with other painkillers or anti-sickness medicines if needed, but it should not be taken with other triptans or medications containing ergotamine.
How long does it take for Sumatriptan to work?
Sumatriptan typically starts working within 30 minutes, providing relief from migraine symptoms.
Is Sumatriptan safe for long-term use?
Sumatriptan is generally safe for occasional use to treat migraines. However, it's essential to follow the prescribed dosage and consult a doctor if migraines become more frequent.
Can Sumatriptan be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using Sumatriptan during pregnancy or breastfeeding to assess potential risks and benefits.
What should I do if Sumatriptan doesn't relieve my migraine symptoms?
If Sumatriptan doesn't provide relief or if symptoms worsen after taking the medication, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment options.
Where can I find more information about Sumatriptan?
Additional information about Sumatriptan can be found in the patient information leaflet provided with the medication or by consulting a healthcare professional.