How Do Migraine Tablets Work?
Are you trying to find migraine tablets online, such as Rizatriptan or Zolmitriptan? Well, before you decide to start taking them, here’s everything you need to know about how they work.
Migraine tablets are usually classified under a group of medicines called Triptans or selective serotonin receptor agonists. These are a specific type of painkiller for migraine headaches.
However, some people may also prefer to treat migraines with over-the-counter medicines, such as paracetamol, aspirin, and ibuprofen. While these can help to reduce the symptoms, they may not work the same way as Triptans.
What Are Triptans and How Do They Work?
Sometimes, ordinary painkillers don’t work with severe migraines. You can make an appointment with your doctor to receive proper advice and a prescription for migraines in such cases.
Triptans are a type of medicine that’s often used to treat migraines. They work by causing the blood vessels around the brain to contract or narrow.
In case you may be wondering how that’s supposed to help?
The expansion of the blood vessels is believed to be a cause of the migraine. Hence, reversing that process can often help to relieve the symptoms.
Triptans are available as tablets, injections, and nasal sprays. For example, Rizatriptan Tablets and Zolmitriptan Tablets both come in tablet form and are ingested by mouth.
When Should You Take Triptans?
For the most effective results, a triptan should be taken early on during a migraine attack - or as soon as the pain starts. It’s usually harder to treat pain once it gets worse.
Are There Any Side Effects?
There can be a few common side effects of triptans, such as:
- warm sensations
- tightness
- tingling
- flushing
- feelings of heaviness in the face, limbs, or chest
Some people may also experience nausea, dry mouth, or drowsiness. These side effects are usually mild and should improve on their own. However, just like with other painkillers, taking too many triptans can lead to a medication overuse headache.
So, your general physician is likely to recommend having a follow-up appointment to discuss Triptans’ effectiveness once you finish your first course. If the medicine was helpful to you, then the treatment is continued.
Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107
Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925