Imitrex Injection is a medication made up of an antimigraine drug called sumatriptan. Imitrex injection can also be referred to as Imigran Injection and can be purchased in 6mg/0.5ml!

Imitrex is a fast relief treatment for the symptoms of migraines and cluster headaches. A migraine is a type of moderate to severe headache and has common symptoms such as sensitivity to light and noise, headache pain (begins as a dull ache and grows into a throbbing pain), and nausea. Other symptoms that are less common, but can still be treated with Imitrex, include vomiting, upset stomach, loss of appetite, dizziness and fatigue. Migraines are consistent and can last for hours up to days at a time. Cluster headaches are very similar to migraines; they have a severe pain level, share symptoms and may also occur for few hours to a few days, however, cluster headaches come in waves and are less consistent than migraines, and have the potential to last for months. This medication is not effective in preventing future migraines or headaches from occurring or decreasing the frequency in which they occur.

Imitrex is effective in treating the symptoms of migraines and cluster headaches because of its ability to affect the serotonin (a natural substance of the brain) that causes the narrowing of blood vessels and affects other certain nerves in the brain that are associated with headaches.

Use this medication exactly the way your doctor has prescribed it to you. You will need to administer the shot yourself so ensure you pay close attention when the doctor shows you how to inject Imitrex.

When you begin feeling the “dull headache stage”– or the first sign of a migraine or cluster headache – take your dose. The first dose is usually taken in a hospital setting so medical attention is quickly accessible if any adverse interactions or side effects occur.

If one dose is not working, you may take a second one after at least 120 minutes (2 hours) after the first dose, or as directed by your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve; consult your doctor.

Do not used more than your recommended amount. Using more will not help your migraine or cluster headache quicker and can cause them to become worse. Do not exceed more than 200mg within 24 hours.

Do not refrigerate this medication; store at room temperature away from heat, moisture and light.

Do not use Imitrex Injection if you are allergic to any of its contents. Ensure you tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, any medical conditions you may have, as well as any drug allergies. If you have ever suffered from health conditions such as high blood pressure, chest pain or pressure, diseased arteries connected to a leg or arm, heart attack, heart disease, poor blood flow, stroke, transient ischemic attack, liver disease, or a heartbeat that is not normal like Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome; consult your doctor before using this medication as you may need a dose adjustment or special cautionary measures while using Imitrex.

If you have taken medications for depression or Parkinson’s disease in the last two weeks (14 days) inform your doctor has you may increase your blood pressure significantly by taking Imitrex.

If you take another medication containing sumatriptan, consult your doctor; you may need a dose adjustment or special directions when taking Imitrex.

If you have taken almotriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, or zolmitriptan, ergotamine, methysergide, dihydroergotamine, or any drug like them in the last 24 hours; consult your doctor before using this medication (Imitrex) as you may need a dose adjustment or special cautionary measures while using Imitrex.

Rarely, a very serious and sometimes deadly heart problem, such as heart attack or irregular heartbeat, may occur within a few hours of taking Imitrex Injection. If you first dose is not in a hospital setting, monitor yourself for warning signs of heart problems during the first day of treatment.

You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Imitrex while pregnant or breastfeeding with your doctor before using this medication.

Common side effects of Imitrex Injection (sumatriptan) may include:

Feeling dizzy, sleepy, tired, or weak. Flushing. Feeling of warmth. Upset stomach or throwing up. Irritation where the shot is given.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Imitrex Injection (sumatriptan) may include:

Seizures. Loss of eyesight. This can be long-lasting. Very bad headache or if headache is not better after the first dose. A burning, numbness, or tingling feeling that is not normal. Change in color of skin to a bluish color like on the lips, nail beds, fingers, or toes. Diarrhea or constipation.

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

high blood pressure - very bad headache or dizziness; passing out; or change in eyesight; and

heart problems - chest, throat, neck, or jaw tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness; break out in a cold sweat; shortness of breath; a fast heartbeat; a heartbeat that does not feel normal; or very bad dizziness or passing out.

Can children use this medication?

It is not recommended, however, certain doctors may feel the benefit outweighs the risk and may prescribe Imitrex to a child at least 6 years old.

How should I store this medication?

Keep this medication protected from small children and pets. Keep it from getting wet. Store at room temperature in a cool area.  

What is the average dose for an adult with a migraine? With a cluster headache?

An adult with a migraine may start on an initial dose of 1 – 6mg once a day. Do not exceed 40mg within 24 hours.

An adult with cluster headaches may start on an initial dose of 6 mg once a day. Do not exceed 12mg within 24 hours.

Are there any risks for the elderly patients taking Imitrex Injection?

Elderly patients may be more at risk for side effects than children and adults and may want to consider a low initial dose.