General information
Uses
What should I know before taking this drug?
Precautions
Adverse reactions
Storage
Additional information if any
Type: OTC / Prescription
Almotriptan is a prescription drug available from your pharmacy store only with the prescription of a qualified medical practitioner.
Almotriptan belongs to group of drugs called selective serotonin receptor agonist
Almotriptan is used to treat acute migraine attack. Almotriptan does not prevent future migraine attacks.
Take almotriptan 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 almotriptan.
Almotriptan can be taken with or without food however with out food it works faster and gives better relief.
Almotriptan should be taken at the first sign of migraine attack or it is progressing. Do not take almotriptan 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 almotriptan 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.
What are the precautions I should follow for almotriptan?
Children: The safety and efficacy of almotriptan is not confirmed in children. Almotriptan should not be used in children less than 18 years old.
Older people: Cautions is advised for usage of almotriptan in older people as they have reduced renal function.
Pregnant women: Almotriptan belongs to FDA pregnancy category C. This means that almotriptan 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 almotriptan passes into breast milk or if it could harm the baby. Do not take almotriptan with out first talking to doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.
Other: Do not use almotriptan if you are suffering from any cardiovascular disease like heart attack, angina pectoris (chest pain), liver or kidney disease.
Do not take the almotriptan if you have already taken any other anti migraine drugs in last 24 hours.
The following are the side effects for almotriptan
Store almotriptan 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.
Almotriptan cause drowsiness, dizziness, does not drive or operate the machine while you are taking almotriptan.
Almotriptan can not be used as prophylactic, it only cure the migraine which is already started.
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 modified: July 8, 2011