Frova

Remember that Frova should not be used for "hemiplegic migraine" or "basilar migraine." Do not use it again if it causes an allergic reaction, and do not take it for 24 hours after using another serotonin agonist or an ergot-based migraine medication. Serotonin agonists include almotriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and zolmitriptan. Ergot medications include such drugs as ergotamine and methylsergide.

Special warnings about Frova

In people with heart disease, medications similar to Frova have been known to cause serious problems, including heart attacks and strokes. If you have heart disease, or know of any factors that make undetected heart disease a possibility, be sure to tell the doctor. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, excess weight, smoking, a history of heart disease in your family, and menopause in women or age over 40 in men.

If there's any chance of a heart problem, your doctor may administer the first dose of Frova in the office and monitor your response. After later doses, call your doctor immediately if you develop pain, tightness, heaviness, and pressure in your throat, chest, neck, or jaw.

Frova is not recommended for children under age 18.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Frova

Remember that Frova must never be combined with other serotonin-agonist or ergot-based migraine drugs. (See "Why should this drug not be prescribed?")

If Frova is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Frova with the following:

• Antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs that boost serotonin levels, including fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline
• Propranolol

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Frova has not been studied in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor right away so you can discuss your treatment options.