Prescription Migraine Treatments

Around 1 in 5 women and 1 in 15 men have suffered from the symptoms of migraines in the UK. Migraines can start at any age but usually begin during adolescence. Migraines most commonly lead to throbbing headaches, usually on one side of your head.

The exact cause of migraines isn’t known, but it’s thought to be the result of brain activity affecting nerves, chemicals and blood vessels in the brain. Your genes may make you more likely to experience migraines as a result of specific triggers.

Possible migraine triggers include hormonal, emotional, physical, dietary, environmental and medicinal factors. Triggers vary from person to person so it may be helpful to keep a diary to see if you can identify a consistent trigger for your migraines.

Many people who have migraines find that over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol, aspirin or ibuprofen, can help to reduce their symptoms. However, if these don’t work then you can get another type of medication called Triptans on prescription. Triptans work by narrowing the blood vessels in your head which are thought to be involved in the symptoms of migraines.

We offer a wide range of different brands and formulations of Triptans to treat your migraine. Which one you choose is down to your own personal preference. Nasal sprays get to work the quickest and the orodispersible tablets are easier to take if you don't like swallowing tablets.

About Imigran tablets

Imigran contains the active ingredient Sumatriptan and is most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. Sumatriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Imigran only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet.

You take one tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms. The tablet should be swallowed with a drink of water. 

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Imigran isn’t relieving the migraine.

The starting dose for Imigran is 50mg, however if this doesn’t relieve your symptoms 100mg tablets are available. You should take no more than 300mg in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Imigran as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.945.pdf

About Imigran Nasal Spray 

Imigran Nasal Spray contains the active ingredient Sumatriptan and is most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. Sumatriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Imigran only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet.

For Imigran Nasal Spray, the dose is one spray into one nostril at the onset of migraine symptoms. 

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Imigran isn’t relieving the migraine.

The starting dose for Imigran Nasal Spray is 10mg (10mg per spray), however if this doesn’t relieve your symptoms a 20mg spray is available (20mg per spray). You should use no more than 40mg of Imigran Nasal Spray in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after using Imigran Nasal Spray as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7609.pdf

About Sumatriptan tablets

Sumatriptan is most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. Sumatriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Sumatriptan only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet.

You take one tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms. The tablet should be swallowed with a drink of water. 

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Sumtriptanisn’t relieving your migraine.

The starting dose for Sumatriptan is 50mg, however if this doesn’t relieve your symptoms 100mg tablets are available. You should take no more than 300mg in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Sumatriptan or Imigran as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1257.pdf

About Rizatriptan tablets

Rizatriptan tablets are most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. Rizatriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Rizatriptan only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet. 

You take one Rizatriptan tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms. The tablet should be swallowed with a drink of water. 

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Rizatriptan isn’t relieving your migraine. You should take no more than two tablets in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Rizatriptan as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9893.pdf

About Rizatriptan orodispersible tablets

Rizatriptan orodispersible tablets are most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. They are ideal for people who have difficulty swallowing normal tablets. Rizatriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Rizatriptan only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet. 

Take one Rizatriptan orodispersible tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms. With dry hands, place one orodispersible tablet on your tongue where it dissolves and will be swallowed with your saliva.

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Rizatriptan isn’t relieving your migraine. You should take no more than two tablets in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Rizatriptan as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9894.pdf

About Maxalt Melts

Maxalt Melts contain the active ingredient Rizatriptan and are most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. They are ideal for people who have difficulty swallowing tablets. Rizatriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Maxalt Melts only work during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet. 

With dry hands, place one Melt on your tongue at the onset of migraine symptoms and let it dissolve. The drug will be swallowed in your saliva. 

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if the Maxalt Melts don't relieve your migraine. You should take no more than two Maxalt Melts in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Maxalt Melts as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2781.pdf

About Zolmitriptan 

Zolmitriptan is most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. Zolmitriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Zolmitriptan only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet.

Take one Zolmitriptan tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms. The tablet should be swallowed with a drink of water. 

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Zolmitriptan doesn’t relieve your migraine.

The starting dose for Zolmitriptan is 2.5mg, however if this doesn’t relieve your symptoms 5mg tablets are available. You should take no more than 10mg in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Zolmitriptan as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3968.pdf

About Zolmitriptan orodispersible tablets

Zolmitriptan orodispersible tablets are most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. They are ideal for people who have difficulty swallowing normal tablets. Zolmitriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Zolmitriptan only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet.

Take one Zolmitriptan orodispersible tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms. With dry hands, place one orodispersible tablet on your tongue where it dissolves and will be swallowed with your saliva.

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Zolmitriptan doesn’t relieve your migraine.

The starting dose for Zolmitriptan is 2.5mg, however if this doesn’t relieve your symptoms 5mg orodispersible tablets are available. You should take no more than 10mg in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Zolmitriptan as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9926.pdf

About Zomig tablets

Zomig contains the active ingredient Zolmitriptan and is most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. Zolmitriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Zomig only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet.

Take one Zomig tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms. The tablet should be swallowed with a drink of water. 

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Zolmitriptan doesn’t relieve your migraine. You should take no more than 10mg in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Zomig as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1372.pdf

About Zomig Rapimelts

Zomig Rapimelts contain the active ingredient Zolmitriptan and are most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. They are ideal for people who have difficulty swallowing normal tablets. Zolmitriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Zomig Rapimelts only work during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet.

Take one Zomig Rapimelt at the onset of migraine symptoms. With dry hands, place one tablet on your tongue where it dissolves and will be swallowed with your saliva.

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Zomig doesn’t relieve your migraine.

The starting dose for Zomig Rapimelts is 2.5mg, however if this doesn’t relieve your symptoms 5mg Rapimelts are available. You should take no more than 10mg in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after taking Zomig Rapimelts as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1531.pdf

About Zomig Nasal Spray

Zomig Nasal Spray contains the active ingredient Zolmitriptan and is most effective when taken as soon as the first symptoms become noticeable. Zolmitriptan reduces the widening of the blood vessels and consequently reduces the symptoms associated with a migraine. Zomig only works during a migraine and should not be taken to prevent a migraine that has not occurred yet.

For Zomig Nasal Spray, the dose is one spray into one nostril at the onset of migraine symptoms. 

The dose can be repeated 2 hours later if the migraine comes back. The second dose should not be taken if the first dose didn’t relieve your symptoms. You can try something else like paracetamol or aspirin if Zomig isn’t relieving the migraine.

You should use no more than 2 doses of Zomig Nasal Spray in any 24 hour period.

You should avoid driving after using Zomig Nasal Spray as drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of the drug.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6712.pdf

Side effects

Sumatriptan tablets:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Pins and needles
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Temporary increase in blood pressure
• Flushing
• Breathing difficulty
• Nausea/vomiting
• Muscle pain/weakness
• Fatigue

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1257.pdf

Imigran tablets:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Pins and needles
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Temporary increase in blood pressure
• Flushing
• Breathing difficulty
• Nausea/vomiting
• Muscle pain/weakness
• Fatigue

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.945.pdf

Imigran Nasal Spray:

Very common side effects (affects more than 10% of the population)

• Unpleasant taste/smell

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Pins and needles
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Temporary increase in blood pressure
• Flushing
• Nose bleeds
• Breathing difficulty
• Nausea/vomiting
• Pain
• Fatigue

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7609.pdf

Rizatriptan tablets:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Pins and needles
• Headache
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Palpitations
• Nausea/vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhoea
• Indigestion
• Throat discomfort
• Flushing
• Neck pain/stiffness
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9893.pdf

Rizatriptan orodispersible tablets:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Pins and needles
• Headache
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Palpitations
• Nausea/vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhoea
• Indigestion
• Throat discomfort
• Flushing
• Neck pain/stiffness
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9894.pdf

Maxalt Melts:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Pins and needles
• Headache
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Palpitations
• Nausea/vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhoea
• Indigestion
• Throat discomfort
• Flushing
• Neck pain/stiffness
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2781.pdf

Zolmitriptan tablets:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Pins and needles
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Headache
• Heart palpitations
• Abdominal pain
• Dry mouth
• Nausea/vomiting
• Swallowing discomfort
• Muscle pain/weakness
• Fatigue

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3968.pdf

Zolmitriptan orodispersible tablets:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Pins and needles
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Headache
• Heart palpitations
• Abdominal pain
• Dry mouth
• Nausea/vomiting
• Swallowing discomfort
• Muscle pain/weakness
• Fatigue

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9926.pdf

Zomig tablets:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Pins and needles
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Headache
• Heart palpitations
• Abdominal pain
• Dry mouth
• Nausea/vomiting
• Swallowing discomfort
• Muscle pain/weakness
• Fatigue

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1372.pdf

Zomig Rapimelts:

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Pins and needles
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Headache
• Heart palpitations
• Abdominal pain
• Dry mouth
• Nausea/vomiting
• Swallowing discomfort
• Muscle pain/weakness
• Fatigue

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1531.pdf

Zomig Nasal Spray:

Very common side effects (affects more than 10% of the population)

• Unpleasant taste

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Pins and needles
• Reduced sensitivity to touch
• Headache
• Heart palpitations
• Abdominal pain
• Dry mouth
• Nausea/vomiting
• Swallowing discomfort
• Muscle pain/weakness
• Fatigue

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6712.pdf

The main symptom of a migraine is a severe headache that can last for several days. Usually, the headache consists of throbbing pain on one or both sides of your head. Other common symptoms of a migraine can include:

• Increased sensitivity to light or sound
• Nausea

Less common symptoms include:

• Sweating
• Poor concentration
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea

Some people suffer from migraines with aura, which means they experience other warning symptoms before the migraine hits, including:

• Visual problems
• Numbness of the face or limbs
• Speech problems
• Dizziness