What is Naratriptan used for?
Naratriptan is used to treat acute migraine attacks with or without aura (warning signs such as visual disturbance or strange sensation that may occur before the onset of a migraine). Naratriptan belongs to the group of medicines called triptans.
The widening of blood vessels in the brain may cause migraine. Naratriptan works by narrowing blood vessels in the brain and this helps relieve the symptoms of migraine headache including throbbing pain, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound.
Naratriptan will not prevent future headaches and also will not reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What is the recommended dosage of Naratriptan?
The dosage of Naratriptan prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
Naratriptan can be taken with or without food. Take Naratriptan tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not take more than 2 Naratriptan tablets in a 24-hour period.
Take Naratriptan tablet soon after you notice a migraine attack.
What if you miss a dose of Naratriptan?
Naratriptan is not meant for regular use. This medicine should be taken only after the onset of migraine.
What if you overdose on Naratriptan?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Naratriptan, seek medical attention immediately.
What other drugs could interact with Naratriptan?
- Bromocriptine
- Citalopram
- Dextromethorphan
- Dihydroergotamine
- Duloxetine
- Ergotamine
- Fluoxetine
- Fluvoxamine
- Mirtazapine
- Nefazodone
- Paroxetine
- Rizatriptan
- Sertraline
- Sibutramine
- St. John’s wort
- Sumatriptan
- Venlafaxine
- Zolmitriptan
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Naratriptan.
Naratriptan can interact with the following types of medicines: other migraine medications, certain types of antidepressants, birth control pills, MAO inhibitors and ergot-containing medications.
Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications (over-the-counter products) and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, which may increase the effect of Naratriptan, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.
What are the side effects of Naratriptan?
Like other medicines, Naratriptan can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Naratriptan are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.
It is pertinent to note that side effects of Naratriptan cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Naratriptan develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Naratriptan can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, flushing, nausea, and numbness, prickling or tingling of the skin. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Naratriptan.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Naratriptan?
Is it possible for me to take Naratriptan with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Naratriptan?
What are the possible drug interactions of Naratriptan?
How will Naratriptan work in my body?
How should Naratriptan be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Naratriptan drug interactions and side effects?
Note
Before using Naratriptan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have a history of blood circulation disease, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, high cholesterol and uncontrolled high blood pressure. Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you are breast-feeding.
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Naratriptan is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.