|
|
|
Naratriptan |
|
|
What is Naratriptan and why is it prescribed? Naratriptan is used for relief of classic migraine headaches. Naratriptan is helpful whether or not the headache is preceded by an aura. Naratriptan works only during an actual attack. It will not reduce the number of headaches that develop. Naratriptan should be used only for acute, classic migraine attacks. It should not be taken for other types of headache, including cluster headache and certain unusual types of migraine. How should you take Naratriptan? Follow your doctors directions for taking Naratriptan. Naratriptan may be taken any time after the headache starts. Swallow the tablet whole, with liquid. If you have no response, a partial response, or return of your headache after the first tablet, consult your doctor. You may take a second tablet, but should wait at least 4 hours after the first dose. Do not take more than two doses within 24 hours. Naratriptan is not for regular use. Take it only during an attack. Store Naratriptan tablets at room temperature, away from heat and light. If your medication has expired, throw it away. If your doctor decides to stop your treatment, do not keep any leftover medicine unless your doctor recommends it. Are there any Naratriptan side effects? Naratriptan side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Naratriptan side effects may include nausea, sensation of pain and pressure, and strange sensations. Less common Naratriptan side effects may include decreased salivation, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, ear/nose/throat infections, sensation of pain and pressure in the neck and throat, sensation of warmth or cold, sensitivity to light, tingling and stinging of the skin, vertigo, and vomiting. Rare Naratriptan side effects may include acid indigestion, allergic reactions, anxiety, blurred vision, constipation, chills and fever, cough, depression, diarrhea, fainting, increased blood pressure, increased thirst, increased urination, itching, joint and muscle stiffness, joint pain, loss of body fluids, muscle cramps and spasms, pneumonia, rapid heartbeat, ringing in the ears, sensitivity to sound, sinus and upper respiratory inflammation, skin rash, sleep disturbances, sweating, swelling, swollen and itchy patches of skin, taste and smell disturbances, thinking disturbances, and tremors. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Naratriptan? If Naratriptan 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. Do not combine Naratriptan with the following: Ergot-containing drugs (such as Cafergot and Ergostat), Sumatriptan (Imitrex), Zolmitriptan (Zomig), or Antidepressants that boost serotonin levels (including Luvox, Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft). Are there any special warnings about Naratriptan? People with a heart or circulatory condition have been known to suffer a heart attack or stroke after taking Naratriptan. 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. If there's any chance of a heart problem, your doctor may administer the first dose of Naratriptan in the office and monitor your response. After later doses, call your doctor immediately if you experience chest discomfort, sudden or severe stomach pain, numbness or tingling, heat sensations, or facial flushing after taking Naratriptan. Naratriptan is only for classic migraine headache. If the first dose fails to relieve your symptoms, your doctor should reevaluate you. Your problem may not be migraine. If a headache feels different from any you've had previously, check with your doctor. It could be a warning of a problem unrelated to migraine. If you have kidney or liver problems, or if you have any trouble with your eyes, inform your doctor. Although very rare, severe and even fatal allergic reactions have occurred in people taking Naratriptan. Call your doctor immediately if you have shortness of breath; wheezing; palpitations; swelling of the eyelids, face, or lips; or a skin rash, lumps, or hives. Such reactions are more likely in people who have multiple allergies. Naratriptan has not been tested in children or adults over age 65. |
|
|
Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
|
|
Copyright 2008 MyMedications.net. All rights reserved. |
|
