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What Does Imitrex Do?

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), "Imitrex is used for short-term treatment of most types of migraine attacks in adults. Imitrex is not used to prevent migraines, or decrease the number of migraine attacks." Another name for Imitrex is sumatriptan succinate, and most migraine sufferers will tell you it works. However, what they may not tell you is that there are side effects and warnings that go along with this drug.

  1. Effectiveness

    • When a migraine occurs, blood vessels in the head dilate. Imitrex restores them to their original size. This is very effective. According to eMedTv.com, 79 percent of migraine sufferers find relief with Imitrex. This is considered a wonder drug.

    Other Symptoms

    • In addition to relieving pain, Imitrex is also effective on the light sensitivity and nausea that accompany migraines. However, to be effective Imitrex must be taken as soon as the migraine begins.

    Forms of Imitrex

    • Imitrex comes in various forms, including injections, nose sprays and pills. The decision of which to take is between your doctor and you based on your needs. One of the important things to know about taking this drug is when to take it: Taking it immediately at the onset of a migraine is essential.

    Reasons to Avoid Imitrex

    • Imitrex may not be for you. If you have angina, an allergic reaction to sumatriptan, problems with circulation of the blood, a history of stroke or heart attack, or high blood pressure, you will usually not be prescribed Imitrex because it could have serious effects on your heart.

    Warning

    • If you take drugs that treat depression you should not take Imitrex. According to the FDA, mixing the two could cause a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. Some of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome are restlessness, nausea and a sudden change in blood pressure. The FDA website has a full list of symptoms.

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