Rizatriptan

Rizatriptan is used to treat migraines, debilitating headaches characterised by severe and prolonged throbbing and often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Rizatriptan is part of a family of medicines known as selective serotonin receptor agonists (SSRAs). They work by temporarily narrowing the brain's blood vessels, dulling the sensitivity of the neurotransmitters and preventing pain signals from reaching the brain. They also inhibit the production of certain substances that cause the pain. Many people find Rizatriptan to be an effective treatment for migraine headaches if it is taken at the onset of an attack. However, Rizatriptan does not prevent, reduce or cure migraine attacks.

Rizatriptan is used to treat migraines, debilitating headaches characterised by severe and prolonged throbbing and often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Rizatriptan is part of a family of medicines known as selective serotonin receptor agonists (SSRAs). They work by temporarily narrowing the brain's blood vessels, dulling the sensitivity of the neurotransmitters and preventing pain signals from reaching the brain. They also inhibit the production of certain substances that cause the pain.

Many people find Rizatriptan to be an effective treatment for migraine headaches if it is taken at the onset of an attack. However, Rizatriptan does not prevent, reduce or cure migraine attacks.

Rizatriptan should be swallowed with a glass of water as soon as symptoms commence. However, do not take it if you initially experience an aura - a sign that a migraine is about to begin - or it might not work. Rizatriptan works best when taken on an empty stomach although you can still take it after eating - it will just take longer to work.

One 5 mg or 10 mg tablet should be taken initially. If your symptoms improve after a couple of hours, but if the migraine symptoms persist, you can take a second tablet. However, if you do not notice any improvement, you should not take the second tablet until you have consulted a doctor.
Rizatriptan is not a medication that can be bought over the counter without a prescription and it is very important to follow the advice of your doctor before commencing with the treatment. Your doctor will tell you how many Rizatriptan tablets it is safe for you to take in a 24-hour period. The maximum dosage is 30 mg in 24 hours. Do not exceed this amount.

Children can be prescribed paediatric Rizatriptan as long as they weigh over 40 kg. Your doctor will calculate the correct dosage for your child.

Rizatriptan can cause many side effects. These include:
Nausea;
Cramping or muscle pain;
Dizziness;
Tremors;
Palpitations;
Drowsiness/fatigue;
Dry mouth;
Diarrhoea.

Serious and rare side-effects of Rizatriptan include:
Slow heartbeat;
Seizures;
Allergic reactions;
Visual disturbances.

If you experience any of the above after taking Rizatriptan, seek emergency medical help without delay.

Rizatriptan is not suitable for daily use and you should not take it within 24 hours of taking another headache medication.

Rizatriptan is not a safe medication for everyone. You should not take Rizatriptan if you are allergic to any of the ingredients or, for example, if you have:

High blood pressure;
Coronary problems;
Circulatory disorders.

You should tell your doctor if you have:

Used an MAO inhibitor in the last two weeks;
Any of the risk factors of coronary heart disease (being overweight smoking, diabetes, family history, menopause ...)
A medical condition for which you are prescribed Propanolol;
Liver or kidney disease.

Always disclose the details of all medication you are currently using to the prescribing doctor.

It is not known whether Rizatriptan will harm a developing foetus so tell your doctor if you pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding.
Rizatriptan slows your responses and reaction times so do not drive until all your symptoms have subsided.
Do not drink alcohol whilst taking Rizatriptan as it can make your symptoms worse.