Imitrex Nasal Spray (Sumatriptan Nasal Spray) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

Pill Identifier Search

May 27, 2012

Imitrex Nasal Spray

Headache »

What is a headache?

A Headache is defined as a pain in the head or upper neck. It is one of the most common locations of pain in the body and has many causes.

How are headaches classified?

Headaches have numerous causes, and in 2007 the International Headache Society agreed upon an updated classification system for headache. Because so many people suffer from headaches and because treatment sometimes is difficult, it is hoped that the new classification system will allow health care practitioners come to a specific diagnosis as to the type of headache and to provide better and more effective treatment.

There are three major categories of headaches:

primary headaches,
secondary headaches, and
cranial neuralgias, facial pain, and other headaches

What are primary headaches?

Primary headaches include migraine, tension, and cluster headaches, ...

Read the Headache article »

« Previous
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Next »

Imitrex Nasal Spray User Reviews >>

Imitrex Nasal Spray

View the Headaches and Migraines Slideshow Pictures

A Visual Guide to Migraine Headaches Slideshow Pictures

Headache and Migraine Triggers Slideshow Pictures

Take the Migraines Quiz

font size

Imitrex Nasal Spray Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

SUMATRIPTAN SPRAY - NASAL

(sue-muh-TRIP-tan)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Imitrex

USES: Sumatriptan is used to treat migraines. It helps to relieve headaches, pain and other symptoms of migraines, including sensitivity to light/sound, nausea, and vomiting. Prompt treatment allows you to get back to your normal routine and may decrease your need for other pain medications. Sumatriptan does not prevent future migraines or reduce how often you may get a headache.

Sumatriptan belongs to a group of drugs called triptans. It affects a certain natural chemical (serotonin) that constricts blood vessels in the brain. It may also block other pain pathways in the brain.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist before you start using sumatriptan and each time you get a refill. Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

The usual dose is one spray in only one nostril at the first sign of a migraine, or as directed by your doctor. If there is no improvement in your symptoms, do not take any more doses of this medication before talking to your doctor. If your symptoms are only partly relieved, or if your headache comes back, you may use a second dose after two hours, or as directed by your doctor. Do not use more than 40 milligrams in a 24-hour period. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

If you have never taken this medication before and you have risk factors for heart disease (see Precautions), you may need to be monitored for rare but serious side effects (e.g., chest pain) when you take the first dose. Your doctor may ask you to take the first dose in the office.

Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.