Migraines are usually moderate to severe headaches that can last anywhere between two hours to two days. The actual reasons behind the causes of migrations are varied, and it is difficult to pinpoint a single trigger that activates the migraine headaches in everyone.
Unfortunately, migraines are a common condition, affecting nearly 1 in 5 people in the UK. They usually begin during early adulthood and can last for a lifetime. Thankfully, some medicines help control the severity of migraines and can help reduce the pressure and strain. You should try Sumatriptan tablets, number one in the UK, for migraine pain management and treatment.
Undoubtedly, Sumatriptan is the best medication to tackle migraines in the UK. It is also known by other brand names like Migraitan, Imigran, and Boots Migraine Relief 50 mg. All these are tablets used to control migraines and cluster headaches.
What Are Some Facts About Sumatriptan?
Sumatriptan is the preferred medication of choice for migraines and cluster headaches. It is known by several brand names, as mentioned above, and should be consumed as soon as you feel the start of a migraine. Sumatriptan is not preventive medicine and cannot stop a migraine or cluster headache from occurring.
The effect of the medicine does not kick in immediately, and it usually happens gradually over 30 minutes to 60 minutes. However, the sprays and injections work faster than the tablet form of Sumatriptan. People suffering from migraines should not take other triptans like ergotamine while on Sumatriptan.
While there are fewer side effects, some people have mentioned sleepiness or dizziness. Some have also felt a little sick. These side effects usually pass soon and do not last for the entire duration of the migraine. It is ideal to rest in a dark and silent place till you feel the medication kick in.
Who can take Sumatriptan?
Adults in the UK can consume Sumatriptan tablets or opt for injections to help with migraines. The medicine dosage depends solely on the intensity and severity of the headache. The nasal spray is only allowed for people under 65 years of age. This condition is set forth by the NHS.
Sumatriptan isn’t officially allowed or approved for children. However, there have been instances when doctors have prescribed Sumatriptan for children above 6 years of age. Children should be administered Sumatriptan’ only’ under the doctors’ supervision.
Sumatriptan is not wholly suitable for everyone suffering from migraines. In case you have any of the following conditions, please inform your doctor immediately so they can offer the best medical course for your migraine.
- Allergic reactions to Sumatriptan (spray, tablets, or injections) in the past
- Heart issues like angina and coronary heart diseases
- Heart rhythm issues like murmuring and arrhythmia
- Circulation issues in your limbs (peripheral vascular disease)
- Stroke or mini-stroke in the past
- Fits or seizures (and any medication) in the past
- Liver issues, surgeries, or medicines
- If you are pregnant, have delivered in the past year, or are breastfeeding
- If you are a heavy smoker, are on nicotine replacement therapy, or are using patches
- Have high or low blood pressure
It is best to also have a list of daily medicines (if any) that you may be on. Some women are also on hormone tablets, take medication during their periods, and more. You should always inform the doctor about all medicines you are on (with their brand names) so you have prescribed the correct medication for your migraine.Â
What Are The Preferred Dosages For Sumatriptan?
After the pain starts, Sumatriptan should be taken (only as per the doctor’s instructions). You should not take Sumatriptan when you ‘feel’ the migraine starts. Only take it once the pain kicks in.Â
Sumatriptan Tablets:
Sumatriptan tablets should be consumed with a glass of plain water. These pills are meant for oral use and should not be crushed or chewed – only swallowed. If you have issues swallowing pills, you can break the tablet into two pieces and take each separately within a few seconds of each other.
The adult dosage of Sumatriptan is 50 mg, but some doctors may prescribe 100 mg based on the intensity of the migraine.
Sumatriptan Injections:
Pre-filled syringes usually contain 6 mg of the medicine. This syringe should be injected into the thigh. This usually works within 5 to 10 minutes.
Sumatriptan Nasal Spray:
Each Sumatriptan spray contains 10 mg to 20 mg of the medicine and should be sprayed directly into an unblocked nostril. As you spray the medication, remember to breathe in gently.
The effect of the spray usually kicks in within 15 to 20 minutes.