Only those who suffer from migraines know how the pain they feel when they get a migraine can stop all their daily activities. Along with this severe pain that feels like your head is about to burst, you may sometimes not be able to look at the light, have difficulty hearing a sound, and feel nauseous. At times like these, there are special medications that doctors prescribe to control this pain. Almotriptan is one such medication that is prescribed to many people. So today, let's learn everything about this medication, how to use it, and what precautions you should take.
What exactly is Almotriptan?
Simply put, Almotriptan is a medication that is given to control the pain of a migraine after it has started. It belongs to a class of drugs called 'triptans'. This medication works by constricting (slightly narrowing) the blood vessels in the brain, blocking the transmission of nerve signals that carry pain.
The important thing is that this is not a medication used to prevent migraines. It is only used to control migraine pain once it has started.
Things you should definitely tell your doctor before taking this medicine:
Almotriptan is not a one-size-fits-all medication. Therefore, it is very important that your doctor knows your complete medical history before prescribing this medication to you. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Health condition or habit | Description |
|---|---|
| Heart disease and blood pressure | If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, an irregular heartbeat, or a previous stroke. |
| Diabetes | If you are diabetic. |
| Smoking | If you are a smoker, you should also mention that. |
| Circulatory problems | If you have problems with blood circulation in your fingers and toes. |
| Kidney or liver disease | If you have kidney or liver disease. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to almotriptan, a class of medicines called sulfonamides, or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is usually taken at the onset of a migraine. Take the prescribed dose with a glass of water, as directed by your doctor. Never take more than the doctor has told you.
Usually, you take one pill as soon as your migraine starts. If the pain doesn't go away after two hours or if it comes back, your doctor will give you clear instructions on whether or not you can take a second pill. Follow those instructions exactly.
Overdosage
If you accidentally take too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
This medicine is prescribed for you only. Even if your friend has the same migraines as you, never give them your medicine.
Other medicines that should not be used with Almotriptan
Some medications can cause serious reactions when taken with Almotriptan. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Medicines that should not be taken with Almotriptan for any reason:
- Other triptans: Other triptans used for migraines, such as Sumatriptan, Rizatriptan, and Zolmitriptan.
- Ergot Alkaloids: Another class of medications used for migraines, such as Ergotamine and Dihydroergotamine.
Other medications that may interact with Almotriptan:
- Some medications given for conditions like depression and anxiety.
- Medicines like Ketoconazole and Itraconazole, which are used to treat fungal infections.
This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements) . Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Things to be careful about while taking the medicine
- Drowsiness and dizziness: Some people may feel drowsy or dizzy when taking this medication. Therefore , avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you.
- Changing positions: Don't go from standing to sitting suddenly, especially if you're older. Doing so can cause dizziness and you may fall.
- Dry mouth: You may experience a dry mouth. This can be controlled by chewing sugar-free gum and drinking plenty of water.
- Worsening of migraines: This is very important. If you use migraine medication more than 10 days a month, it can make your migraines worse. This is called a 'Medication Overuse Headache'. Keep a diary of the days you have migraines and the days you take your medication. If you feel that your migraines are getting worse, talk to your doctor right away.
Side effects of the medicine
Like any medicine, Almotriptan can have side effects. Some are serious, while others are common. It is important to be aware of these.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require you to inform your doctor immediately and go to the ETU | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of a heart attack | Tightness or pain in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw, nausea, difficulty breathing, feeling cold, sweating, fainting. |
| Symptoms of a Stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body), difficulty speaking, confusion, difficulty walking, severe headache. |
| Serotonin Syndrome | Confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, muscle stiffness or twitching, excessive sweating, high fever, vomiting, diarrhea. |
| Other serious symptoms | Sudden increase in blood pressure, vision changes or loss of vision, sudden severe stomach pain, seizures. |
| If it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Common side effects | Dizziness, drowsiness, and a feeling of helplessness. |
How should I store the medicine?
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets . It is best to store it at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius). Discard any expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Almotriptan is a medication that is used to control pain after a migraine has started, not to prevent migraines.
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions (especially heart disease, high blood pressure) and all other medications you are taking.
- Never share this medicine with others. It has been prescribed for you only.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious side effects such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or numbness on one side of the body.
- If you need to take medication for migraines frequently (more than 10 days a month), talk to your doctor about it, as it can make your migraines worse.
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