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Frova |
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What is Frova and why is it prescribed? Frova is used to relieve attacks of migraine headache. It's helpful whether or not the headache is preceded by an aura. Experts think that migraines are caused by the expansion of blood vessels serving the brain, and that this expansion is triggered by a decline in the level of serotonin, one of the brain's chief chemical messengers. Frova works by restoring serotonin levels to normal. It belongs to a class of drugs called "serotonin agonists." Frova can quell migraine attacks once they've begun, but it won't prevent them before they start. It should not be used for certain rare types of migraine called "hemiplegic migraine" or "basilar migraine," and it is not recommended for the "cluster headaches" that tend to affect older men. How should you take Frova? Follow your doctors directions for taking Frova. One Frova tablet can be taken any time after the onset of a headache. If the headache goes away and comes back you can take a second tablet after 2 hours. A third tablet can be taken 2 hours or more after the last dose. Do not take more than 3 tablets in one day. Frova is not for regular use. Take it only during an attack. Store Frova tablets at room temperature away from moisture and light. Are there any Frova side effects? Frova side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Frova side effects may include bone pain, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, flushing, headache, hot or cold sensation, joint pain, and tingling feeling. Less common Frova side effects may include abdominal pain, anxiety, chest pain, diarrhea, indigestion, insomnia, loss of feeling, nausea, pain, pounding heartbeat, ringing in the ears, runny nose, sinus inflammation, sleepiness, sweating, vision abnormalities, and vomiting. A variety of rare side effects are also possible. If you develop any unfamiliar symptoms, be sure to let your doctor know about them. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Frova? If Frova is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Remember that Frova must never be combined with other serotonin-agonist or ergot-based migraine drugs. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Frova with Antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs that boost serotonin levels (including Luvox, Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft) or Propranolol (Inderal). Are there any special warnings about Frova? In people with heart disease, medications similar to Frova have been known to cause serious problems, including heart attacks and strokes. If you have heart disease, or know of any factors that make undetected heart disease a possibility, be sure to tell the doctor. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, excess weight, smoking, a history of heart disease in your family, and menopause in women or age over 40 in men. If there's any chance of a heart problem, your doctor may administer the first dose of Frova in the office and monitor your response. After later doses, call your doctor immediately if you develop pain, tightness, heaviness, and pressure in your throat, chest, neck, or jaw. Frova is not recommended for children under age 18. |
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