Rizatriptan

Where is Rizatriptan used?

Rizatriptan is in the class of drugs called triptans used to treat migraines. A migraine is a medical condition that involves severe, recurring headaches. Causes of migraine are not known but it may stem from changes in the brain that affects;

  • Blood vessels
  • Balance of chemicals
  • The way that nerves communicate

This prescription helps relieve pain, headache, and other symptoms of migraine. Prompt treatment will help you return to your normal routine and lessen your need for other pain medications.

How does Rizatriptan work?

Rizatriptan is an FDA-approved medication in the year 1998. It stimulates the receptors called serotonin receptors which are found in the brain. Serotonin, a natural substance normally acts on these receptors and causing blood vessels in the brain to narrow. Rizatriptan imitates this exploit of serotonin by stimulating right at the serotonin receptors in the brain. This narrows the blood vessels and so relieves the pain of migraines.

How is Rizatriptan taken?

  • Take this Rizatriptan only as directed by your doctor. Do not take it more frequently, more of it, or for a longer time than your doctor prescribed. Using this drug in large amounts could increase the chance of side effects.
  • Do not use Rizatriptan for a headache that is not a migraine. Discuss to your doctor what you can do for regular headaches.
  • To get rid of your migraine, use Rizatriptan as soon as your migraine starts.
  • Do not use Rizatriptan for more than 10 days in any 30 days, unless your doctor tells you to.
  • Do not use more than 2 doses in any 24 hours.
  • After taking a dose of Rizatriptan and you feel much better, but your headache gets worse or comes back, adults may use one additional dose of Rizatriptan 2 hours after the first dose. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
  • You must read and understand the information about this drug. Be sure to ask your doctor about anything you do not understand.

What are the possible side effects of Rizatriptan?

More common:

  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Hot flashes
  • Sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
  • Lack or loss of strength
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common:

  • Blurred vision
  • Constipation
  • Depression
  • Diarrhea
  • Dry eyes
  • Eye irritation
  • Gas
  • Inability to sleep
  • Irritability
  • Itching of the skin
  • Ringing or buzzing in the ears
  • A sudden increase in the frequency or quantity of urine
  • Trembling of the hands or feet
  • An unusual feeling of well-being

What are the precautions in using Rizatriptan?

  • Ask your doctor ahead of time about any other medicine you may take if Rizatriptan does not work. Check with your doctor right away once you take the other drug. Headaches are sometimes caused by conditions that need other treatment and are not relieved by this drug.
  • Tell your doctor what prescription and non-prescription medications, herbal products, or nutritional supplements you are taking or plan to take.
  • This drug must be used with caution in older people.
  • If you are a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, it is best to consult and ask for the approval of your doctor before taking this drug.