Page Contents
WHAT IS IT?
Sumatriptan (Imitrex) belongs to the Triptan class of medications. It is a serotonin (5-HT1B/1D) agonist whose activity will cause:
- Inhibits trigeminal nerve activation
- Prevents vasoactive peptide release
- Induces vasoconstriction
WHEN DO WE USE IT?
Migraine headache: this medication is used for the acute treatment of these headaches (abortive therapy).
Cluster headache: this medication is used for the acute treatment of this condition (abortive therapy).
WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?
Severe hepatic impairment
HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?
Administered orally, intranasally, or by sub-Q injection
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?
Coronary vasospasm can be a drug effect of this medication.
ANYTHING ELSE TO KEEP IN MIND?
Ending “-triptan” is a 5-HT1B/1D agonists
FURTHER READING
Page Updated: 09.01.2016