SUMATRIPTAN

Sumatriptan is a medication used to treat migraine headaches. It belongs to a class of drugs known as triptans, which work by narrowing blood vessels around the brain and reducing substances in the body that trigger migraine symptoms like headache, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other symptoms.

Indications

Sumatriptan is indicated for the acute treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults. It is not intended for the prophylactic therapy of migraines or for the treatment of cluster headaches.

Dosage

-Oral: The recommended adult dose is 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg, taken at the first sign of a migraine. If the migraine persists or returns, a second dose may be taken after 2 hours, but not exceeding 200 mg in 24 hours. -Nasal Spray: One spray (5 mg or 20 mg) in one nostril at the onset of migraine symptoms. A second spray can be used after 2 hours if needed, not exceeding 40 mg in 24 hours. -Injection: 6 mg subcutaneously at the onset of symptoms, with a maximum of 12 mg in 24 hours.

Contra-Indications

-Hypersensitivity to sumatriptan or any of its components -History of heart disease, coronary artery vasospasm, or other significant cardiovascular diseases -Hemiplegic or basilar migraine -Severe hepatic impairment -Use of MAO-A inhibitors within the last 2 weeks

Special Precautions

-Assess cardiovascular status in patients with risk factors before prescribing. -Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures or other risk factors for seizures. -Monitor for serotonin syndrome when used with SSRIs or SNRIs. -Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women unless necessary.

Side Effects

-Tingling or numbness -Dizziness -Flushing Weakness -Drowsiness -Nausea or vomiting

Drug Interactions

-MAO inhibitors (e.g., isocarboxazid, phenelzine) -SSRIs and SNRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) -Other triptans or ergotamine medications -St. John's Wort -Certain antidepressants