Imitrex

Imitrex nasal spray is packaged in single-dose bottles containing either 5 or 20 milligrams of the drug. The usual dosage is a single spray in one nostril. If the headache returns, you may repeat the dose once after 2 hours. Do not take more than 40 milligrams a day.

--If you miss a dose...

Imitrex is not for regular use. Take it only during an attack.

--Storage instructions...

Store Imitrex away from heat and light, at room temperature, in the case provided. If your medication has expired (the expiration date is printed on the treatment pack), throw it away as instructed, but keep the autoinjector. If your doctor decides to stop your treatment, do not keep any leftover medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Throw away your medicine as instructed.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Imitrex.

• More common side effects may include:
  Burning sensation, dizziness or vertigo, feeling of heaviness, feeling of tightness, flushing, mouth and tongue discomfort, muscle weakness, nausea (nasal spray), neck pain and stiffness, numbness, pressure sensation, redness at the site of injection, sinus or nasal discomfort (nasal spray), sore throat, tingling, unusual taste (nasal spray), vomiting (nasal spray), warm/cold sensation

In addition to the above side effects, people taking Imitrex for cluster headache may experience nausea, a "pins and needles" sensation, vomiting, or wheezing.

Why should Imitrex not be prescribed?

Imitrex should not be used for the hemiplegic or basilar forms of migraine. You must also avoid Imitrex if it gives you an allergic reaction.

In addition, the drug should not be prescribed if you have certain types of heart or blood vessel disease, including angina (crushing chest pain) or a history of heart attack, stroke, mini-strokes, or other circulatory problems. It should not be used if you have severe liver disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure. It must not be used within 24 hours of taking an ergotamine-based migraine remedy (such as D.H.E. 45 Injection or Sansert) or any drug in the same class as Imitrex (such as Amerge, Maxalt, or Zomig). And it must not be used for 2 weeks after taking an MAO inhibitor drug such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate.