Imigran uses an active ingredient known as Sumatriptan to treat migraine headaches. It typically works right away to relieve the pain, and it comes in several different forms. While injections are available, it is far more common to find this drug in a tablet or nasal spray form. We’re going to compare these two forms, so you can get a better idea of what might be right for you.
How to Use Imigran
You would take Imigran when you feel the start of a migraine. If you know what signs to watch for before the migraine starts, then you should be able to take the medication preemptively and head off the symptoms.
The tablet form should be consumed with a cup of water, and it should be swallowed, as it has a bitter taste that you’ll want to avoid. Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how much to take and how often to take it, but the recommended dosage for most people to start with is 50mg. The tablets come in both 50mg and 100mg doses. Your doctor may recommend that you take more, and you will want to follow your doctor’s dosage orders at all times.
Imigran nasal spray is somewhat different. Each spray gives you 10mg or 20mg, depending on the spray you are using. Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how much to take, but if you don’t know for sure, then you should always go for the lowest possible dose.
If the dosage you took does not work on your migraine, and the pain is still present, you don’t want to take a second dose. It likely won’t be effective at all.
For the tablet, you don’t want to take more than 300mg within 24 hours. For the nasal spray, you should not take more than 40mg in 24 hours.
The discrepancy in dosages is due to the way the drug is administered and how it goes into your system. The nasal spray is more potent and enters your bloodstream more directly than the tablet does. It should take effect faster too, which makes it the preferred method for many people.
Warnings and Side Effects
Not everyone can use Imigran due to the potential for side effects and complications. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, are over 65 years of age or are pregnant, then let your doctor or pharmacist know. They may recommend an alternative medication for you or require you to take very small doses of the medication.
Some people are allergic to the active ingredient Sumatriptan. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medication, then you should let your doctor know, and you should not take it on your own without a doctor or pharmacists recommendation.
If you suffer any side effects while taking this drug, let the doctor know. Even common side effects like nausea, dizziness, tingling feelings or tiredness should be reported to your doctor. Many of these are mild symptoms and will pass on their own, but your doctor may have some advice for you as to what you can do to control them or minimise those symptoms.
More serious symptoms, such as convulsions, irregular heartbeats or fainting, need to be treated by a medical expert right away. It may not be safe for you to drive to the hospital if you are experiencing these symptoms.
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Authored by Ian Coakley
Medical Content Writer
Ian is a content writer at Simple Online Pharmacy. With a background in science communication, editing, and freelance writing, Ian aims to empower readers with accessible health information.
