General information
Pronunciation
Type: OTC / Prescription
Uses
What should I know before taking this drug?
Precautions
Adverse reactions
Storage
Additional information if any
Rizatriptan is pronounced as: RYE za TRIP tan
Type: OTC / Prescription
Rizatriptan is a prescription drug available from your pharmacy store only with the prescription of a qualified medical practitioner.
Rizatriptan belongs to group of drugs called selective serotonin receptor agonist.
Rizatriptan is used to treat acute migraine attack. Rizatriptan does not prevent future migraine attacks.
Take rizatriptan exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the instructions on the prescription ask your pharmacist to explain them to you. If leaflet is available read it before you start taking the rizatriptan.
Rizatriptan can be taken with or without food however with out food it works faster and gives better relief.
Rizatriptan should be taken at the first sign of migraine attack or it is progressing. Do not take rizatriptan with out having the migraine symptoms, it can not be used to prevent the migraine attack.
If it is the first time you are using the rizatriptan take it in doctors office. If you do not get the relief with the first dose take the second dose after two hours of taking the first dose only with the doctor’s advice.
Children: The safety and efficacy of rizatriptan is not confirmed in children. Rizatriptan should not be used in children less than 18 years old.
Older people: The adverse effects of rizatriptan in seniors are similar to younger however extra precaution is required when rizatriptan is given for older people as they are more sensitive to it.
Pregnant women: Rizatriptan belongs to FDA pregnancy category C. This means that rizatriptan may harm an unborn baby if used during pregnancy but potential benefit may warrant use of the drug in pregnant woman despite potential risks. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning for conception.
Lactating women: It is not known whether rizatriptan passes into breast milk or if it could harm the baby. Do not take rizatriptan with out first talking to doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.
Other: Do not use rizatriptan if you are suffering from any cardiovascular disease like heart attack, angina pectoris (chest pain).
Do not take the rizatriptan if you have already taken any other anti migraine drugs in last 24 hours.
The following are the side effects for rizatriptan
- Drowsiness, dizziness
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Tiredness / weakness
How do I store rizatriptan
Store rizatriptan at room temp (15 – 30 degrees C). Avoid excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight, never store in the bathroom.
Keep it out of reach of children. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed off safely.
Rizatriptan cause drowsiness, dizziness, does not drive or operate machine while you are taking rizatriptan.
Rizatriptan can not be used as prophylactic, it only cure the migraine which is already started.
Inform the doctor if you are on anti depressants like fluoxetine, citalopram
It is imp to read manufacturing packaging instruction carefully if available and always do not hesitate to consult pharmacist or physician for any additional information.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: August 10 ,2011