Imigran

Imigran is the brand name of the drug substance sumatriptan, which belongs to the group of triptans. Triptan was developed about a quarter of a century ago specifically to treat migraine attacks and has since been used successfully for acute migraine and cluster headaches (very severe headaches occurring unilaterally and in attacks in the temple and eye area). The active ingredient is a selective serotonin receptor agonist. By taking the medication, the release of serotonin in the brain is increased, and the headaches are effectively relieved by the mechanism triggered in the head. Next to Imigran you can also request the following treatments for migraine: Sumatriptan, which is the same active ingredient just in form of pills.

The medication relieves migraine (with or without aura), cluster headaches and the accompanying symptoms of nausea, sensitivity to light and noise typical of migraine, after less than 30 minutes of taking the tablets. Imigran, has a selective and targeted effect on the areas of the body where the pain is located. The blood vessels in the brain, which are highly sensitive, dilated, slackened and strained in a migraine attack, are quickly relaxed again by stimulating the serotonin receptors. The blood vessels shrink through the active ingredient and the blood can flow again without throbbing pain. The increased serotonin activation also quickly alleviates the unpleasant side effects of migraine such as nausea, sensitivity to light and noise, and blocks the pain impulses leading to the brain.

Imigran should be taken as soon as possible after the onset of a migraine attack. It can also be taken during a seizure, at any time. However, the medication must not be used for prevention (prophylaxis) and only if a clear migraine is present. Depending on how much the doctor has prescribed, Imigran is usually taken in doses of 10 mg to 20 mg. The nasal spray is particularly practical and acts very quickly in attacks. Studies have shown that a dosage of more than 100 milligrams does not improve the effect and should therefore be avoided. Children or adolescents under the age of 18, or persons over the age of 65, must not take the medication without a doctor’s permission. It must be strictly observed that in cases of untreated high blood pressure, a history of heart attack, coronary artery cramps, stroke, experienced ischemic attacks, liver problems or circulatory disorders of the heart (angina pectoris), the medication should not be taken.

Imigran is known as a medicine with very few side effects. Nevertheless, unwanted side effects can occur.

The most common side effects of the use of Imigran are:

• Nausea,
• Vomiting
• Sleepiness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Tingling
• Blood pressure increase
• Neck stiffness, facial flushing
• Pain
• Feeling cold or hot
• Chest and neck pressure
• Pressure and tightness in various parts of the body.
• In case of chest pain or difficulty with blood pressure, after taking Imigran, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.

Ergotamine and ergotamine-like active substances, as well as additional sumatriptan, must not be used during treatment with Imigran, otherwise the mutual effects may be intensified. In addition, the simultaneous intake of ergot alkaloids is not recommended, because of a risk of cramping of the blood vessels in the heart. In addition, Imigran should not be taken at the same time as certain antidepressants such as MAO inhibitors or SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or Parkinson's disease drugs. There may also be some change in the effect with Imigran if St John's wort is consumed in any form.

Imigran helps with a clear migraine attack quickly and reliably, with typically minimal side effects. At Apomeds we offer the Imigran nasal spray with 20 and 10 mg sumatriptan. Once you have chosen the treatment, you will be redirected to the online questionnaire on our website, which will be thoroughly read and evaluated by our medical team. You will then receive a prescription, which will be sent directly and conveniently to your home, or to the address of your choice, together with the ordered medicine. More information on how Apomeds works, can be found here.