Are migraines getting worse? Let's learn about this new drug (Lasmiditan)?

Are migraines getting worse? Let's learn about this new drug (Lasmiditan)?

Do you also get sick of the whole world when you get a migraine? The severe pain that feels like your head is about to burst, your eyes turn blue so much that you can't look at the light, your stomach churns and you feel like vomiting... Today we are talking about a special medicine that can relieve the pain of such a severe migraine attack. The name of this medicine is Lasmiditan.

Simply put, what is this Lasmiditan?

Lasmiditan is a medication that is given to control the pain of a migraine when it has already started . Think about it, you take it when you feel like you are about to have a migraine, or after it has happened.

The most important thing is that this is not a medicine to prevent migraines from coming back . That is, it is not a medicine to take every day. It is used only when a migraine attack occurs.

Simply put, when a migraine occurs, pain signals start to travel back and forth in our brain. What this medicine does is to stop (block) those pain signals from traveling . Then the severe pain you feel gradually decreases. This medicine can be seen in Sri Lanka and abroad under the brand name `(REYVOW)`.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition before giving you this medicine. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor about them.

  • If you have any heart disease .
  • If you have any liver disease .
  • If you have had an allergic reaction to this medicine, Lasmiditan, any other medicine, food, or dyes.
  • If you are pregnant or are expecting to become pregnant soon .
  • If you are a breastfeeding mother .

Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is suitable for you or not.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

It is very important to know exactly how to use this medicine.

  • When to take: When the migraine pain starts, take it as prescribed by your doctor.
  • How to take: Swallow this tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet.
  • With food: This medicine can be taken before or after meals. However, if you feel upset stomach when taking it on an empty stomach, it is better to take it with food.
  • A reminder: This is not a daily medication. Use it only when you have a migraine, and only as directed by your doctor. Ask your doctor about the maximum daily dose.

Overdose

If you think you have taken 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 has been prescribed for you only. Never share your medicine with others. It can be dangerous.

What other things can interact with this medicine?

Lasmiditan is a medicine that can interact with some other medicines and substances. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking (including vitamins and herbal products). The table below shows some of the things that may interact with this medicine.

Type of medicine/substance Description and examples
Alcohol Drinking alcohol while taking this medication may cause severe drowsiness and dizziness.
Medicines for allergies, coughs, and colds Antihistamines that cause drowsiness.
Medication for mental health problems Some medications for anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Medicines for heart disease and high blood pressure Some medications that control heart rate.
Painkillers Narcotic drugs such as morphine for severe pain.
Other Medicines used to numb the area during surgery, some medicines used to treat seizures, and herbal products such as St. John's Wort.

Things to be especially careful about when taking medication

Extremely important: drowsiness and dizziness

You may feel very sleepy or dizzy after taking this medicine. This is the main side effect of this medicine. Therefore, do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do anything else that requires concentration for at least 8 hours after taking this medicine. Be very careful about this until you know exactly how this medicine affects you.

  • Don't get up too quickly: Don't get up from a sitting position or out of bed suddenly. Doing so can cause dizziness and you may fall. Be especially careful if you are elderly.
  • No alcohol: As we mentioned earlier, avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication. It can make you feel more sleepy and dizzy.
  • Vision changes: If you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurring, tell your doctor immediately.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, Lasmiditan can cause side effects in some people.

Type of side effect Characteristics
Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately
Allergic Reactions Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
Serotonin Syndrome This is a serious condition. Symptoms include: restlessness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, muscle stiffness or twitching, excessive sweating, high fever, convulsions, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist
Dizziness Dizziness after taking medication.
Drowsiness Feeling very sleepy.
Difference in limbs A burning or tingling sensation in the hands or feet.
Fatigue Excessive fatigue in the body.

How to store and dispose of medicine?

  • Keep this medicine safe: Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets . Some people may be tempted to misuse this medicine, so keep it in a safe place that can protect it from theft.
  • Storage: Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius).
  • Expired Medicines: Never use expired medicines. It is very important to dispose of them properly.
  • How to dispose of: Do not throw expired or unwanted pills outdoors or in the trash. Remove the pills from the container, mix them well with something like used coffee grounds, cat litter, or soil, and place them in a sealable bag or container and throw them in the trash. If you are unsure, consult your doctor.

Take-Home Message

  • Lasmiditan is a medicine that relieves the pain of a migraine when it starts, not a medicine that prevents migraines.
  • Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications you take and all medical conditions you have.
  • Very important: Avoid driving or performing any tasks that require concentration for at least 8 hours after taking this medication.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol completely while taking this medicine.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms of a serious side effect, such as an allergic reaction or serotonin syndrome.
  • Always follow the dosage and instructions prescribed by your doctor exactly.

Migraine, Migraine, Lasmiditan, REYVOW, Headache, Painkillers, Medicine

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