What is Zolmitriptan used for?
Zolmitriptan nasal spray is indicated for the acute treatment of migraine headaches with or without aura (warning signs that occur before the headache begins) in adults. Zolmitriptan nasal spray reduces certain natural substances in the body that can cause migraine symptoms such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Zolmitriptan belongs to a class of medications known as triptans. Zolmitriptan relieves headaches by narrowing the blood vessels in the brain.
Zolmitriptan nasal spray will only treat a headache that has already started. Zolmitriptan is not used to treat other types of headaches (such as cluster headaches). Zolmitriptan will not prevent migraine attacks and will not reduce the frequency of attacks. Zolmitriptan may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What is the recommended dosage of Zolmitriptan?
The dosage of Zolmitriptan nasal spray prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
Do not use more than 2 sprays of Zolmitriptan in a 24-hour period.
What if you miss a dose of Zolmitriptan?
Not applicable.
What if you overdose on Zolmitriptan?
Any medication used in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Zolmitriptan, seek medical attention immediately.
Overdose symptoms of Zolmitriptan may include severe drowsiness.
What other drugs could interact with Zolmitriptan?
- Cimetidine
- Ciprofloxacin
- Citalopram
- Desvenlafaxine
- Dihydroergotamine
- Duloxetine
- Ergotamine
- Escitalopram
- Fluoxetine
- Fluvoxamine
- Norfloxacin
- Paroxetine
- Phenelzine
- Sertraline
- St John’s wort
- Tranylcypromine
- Venlafaxine
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Zolmitriptan.
Zolmitriptan can interact with the following types of medicines: antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, ergot-containing medications, quinolone antibiotics, serotonin-type medications, birth control pills, and other triptan-containing drugs.
Usually, drug interactions occur when it is used with another drug or with food. Before you use a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about the 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 Zolmitriptan, 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 Zolmitriptan?
Like other medicines, Zolmitriptan can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Zolmitriptan 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 Zolmitriptan cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Zolmitriptan develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Zolmitriptan can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, nose discomfort, weakness, sleepiness, nausea, taste disturbance, and feeling of heaviness/pressure/tightness. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are using Zolmitriptan.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Zolmitriptan?
Is it possible for me to use Zolmitriptan with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods, and other products be avoided when I use Zolmitriptan?
What are the possible drug interactions of Zolmitriptan?
How will Zolmitriptan work in my body?
How should Zolmitriptan be used?
How to reduce the risk of Zolmitriptan drug interactions and side effects?
Note
Before using Zolmitriptan, inform your doctor if you have a history of heart attack, heart disease, angina, stroke, high blood pressure, ischemic bowel disease, severe liver disease, and vascular problems.
As Zolmitriptan may cause dizziness, be careful while driving or using machinery.
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Zolmitriptan is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.