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Side Effects of Triptans

Triptans are a type of prescription medication that is used for the treatment of migraine headaches. Triptan medicines function by narrowing the brain's blood vessels, thus soothing swelling and relieving the headache. Triptans aim to manage the symptoms of migraine headaches, which include headache, nausea, throwing up, and sensitivity to light and sound. These medicines, however, do not prevent the migraines from happening in the first place. As with any type of medicine, there are some possible negative side effects that are occasionally associated with Triptans.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • There are several common side effects that are often associated with taking any Triptans. In general, these side effects are considered to be minor as they tend to subside on their own as the body adapts to the medicine. However, should they worsen or linger, medical attention might be necessary. These side effects are sensations of cold or warmth, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, prickling, tingling and burning sensations, nausea, drowsiness, dry mouth, skin redness (particularly the face), and feelings of tightness, pressure, or heaviness (mostly around the neck, throat, and chest).

    Severe Side Effects

    • There are also some severe side effects that can occur as a result of using Triptans. In cases of severe side effects, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible. These potentially dangerous side effects are vision changes, vision loss, shortness of breath, extreme chest tightness or ache, bloody diarrhea, sudden, intense stomachache, feeling lightheaded, dizziness, and passing out.

    Allergic Reactions

    • Allergic reactions are also considered to be serious side effects of Triptans use. In situations of allergic reaction, it is vital to seek immediate medical assistance. Some signs of allergic reaction to Triptans are shortness of breath, abnormal swelling, wheezing, breaking out into hives, unusual skin rash, and itchiness.

    Caution

    • When considering whether to take Triptans or not, it is important to consult with your doctor and notify him/her of your medical history, including all past and present conditions, particularly high cholesterol levels, hypertension, diabetes, past involving transient ischemic attack, stroke or bleeding of the brain, depression, epilepsy, any allergies, any blood vessel-related disorders, liver issues (such as cirrhosis), heart problems (especially angina, heart attack, or heart disease), and whether you have undergone menopause.

    Overdose

    • If an individual suspects that they might have overdosed on Triptans, they must seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Some signs of Triptans overdose are feeling lightheaded, drowsiness, seizures, paralysis, tension of the neck, high blood pressure, coordination loss, legs or arms swelling, dilated or widened pupils, watery eyes, more saliva, and feeling shaky. Should a person experience any of these signs after they suspect they might have taken more than the recommended dosage of Triptans, they must seek help as soon as possible.

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