Sumatriptan

Sumatriptan is a prescription medication classified as a selective serotonin receptor agonist (also known as a triptan). It is specifically designed to treat acute migraine attacks and cluster headaches. It is not intended for migraine prevention or daily use. 

Sumatriptan is used for the acute treatment of migraines, with or without aura, in adults. It is also used for treating cluster headaches, a rare but intensely painful type of headache that occurs in cyclical patterns or clusters. It does not treat other types of headaches, such as tension headaches. 

Sumatriptan works by stimulating serotonin (5-HT1B and 5-HT1D) receptors in the brain. This causes the narrowing of dilated blood vessels around the brain, which are believed to play a central role in causing migraine pain. It also reduces the transmission of pain signals in the brain and suppresses the release of pro-inflammatory substances, helping to quickly reduce headache intensity and associated symptoms like nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. 

The typical oral dosage is 50 to 100 mg at the onset of migraine symptoms, with a repeat dose permitted after 2 hours if the headache returns (maximum 200 mg in 24 hours). For nasal spray or subcutaneous injection, different dosage guidelines apply. The appropriate dose should be determined by a healthcare professional based on the individual’s condition and response. 

Relief typically begins within 30 to 60 minutes for tablets, 10 to 20 minutes for nasal sprays, and as little as 10 minutes for injections. Onset may vary depending on how early in the migraine the medication is taken and the form used. 

Sumatriptan is not taken on a regular schedule. It should only be taken when a migraine or cluster headache occurs. If a dose is ineffective, a second dose may be taken after two hours (within daily limits). Never exceed the maximum recommended dose. 

Common side effects include: 

• Tingling, warmth, or flushing
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest, throat, or jaw
• Fatigue

Less common but serious side effects may include: 

• Chest pain or arrhythmias
• Shortness of breath
• Serotonin syndrome (especially when combined with other serotonergic drugs)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as severe chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or visual disturbances.

Sumatriptan should not be used in individuals who: 

• Have a history of heart disease, angina, or stroke
• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Have peripheral vascular disease
• Are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Have severe liver impairment
• Are allergic to Sumatriptan or similar medications

Caution is advised when combining Sumatriptan with: 

• Other triptans (risk of overdose or serotonin syndrome)
• Ergotamine or ergot-type medications
• SSRIs or SNRIs (risk of serotonin syndrome)
• MAO inhibitors (contraindicated within 2 weeks of stopping them)

Always consult a healthcare provider before combining medications.

Sumatriptan is generally classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning risk cannot be ruled out. It should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. It is excreted in breast milk; mothers are typically advised to avoid breastfeeding for 12 hours after taking a dose. 

While there is no direct interaction between Sumatriptan and alcohol, alcohol may trigger or worsen migraines and reduce the effectiveness of treatment. It's generally recommended to avoid alcohol during migraine episodes. 

• Tablet: Swallow with a full glass of water at migraine onset.
• Nasal spray: Use as directed in one nostril only.
• Injection: Administer subcutaneously (under the skin) following proper training or healthcare provider instruction.

Store the medication at room temperature (15–30°C / 59–86°F). Keep it in the original packaging, protected from light, moisture, and heat. Do not use expired medication. 

Sumatriptan can be taken with or without food. However, food may slightly delay absorption, so it’s often best taken on an empty stomach for faster relief. 

Sumatriptan tablets should not be crushed or dissolved, as this may alter absorption. If swallowing is difficult, ask your healthcare provider about alternate formulations like nasal spray or injection. 

To get [Product name], fill out a medical form or book a video consult with a doctor via Transtoyou. After approval, your prescription is sent to the pharmacy for fast delivery.

[Product name] requires a valid prescription, which is issued after the doctor reviewed your answered in the medical questionnaire or via a video consultation with the doctor.

After approval by a doctor from Transtoyou, the prescription of [Product name] is forwarded to an affiliated pharmacy and typically shipped within 1–2 working days.

For safety and legal reasons prescription medication (RX) and in this case [Product name] is non-returnable once shipped.