Imitrex (sumatriptan) is usually prescribed to combat migraine headaches and associated symptoms, such as auras. When given by injection, Imitrex is also effective against cluster headaches.

Imitrex is an abortive medication, meaning it does not prevent a headache from occurring or reduce the frequency with which headaches occur, but it will stop a headache in progress. Results are best when the medication is taken at the earliest signs of a headache beginning.

Imitrex was the first medication available for migraine management in the triptan class of drugs. Since its appearance in the early 1990s, it has become one of the most frequently prescribed abortive migraine treatments in the world.

What Are Imitrex ODT Tablets?

In medicine, ODT stands for Orally Dissolving Tablet. In some parts of the world the term FDT, or Fast Dissolving Tablet, is more commonly used.

Imitrex ODT Tablets are essentially the same as regular Imitrex Tablets as far as strength and medical effect, but instead of being swallowed Imitrex ODT Tablets dissolve in the mouth. This method of delivery is advantageous for patients in a number of scenarios:

• Patients with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Patients unable to follow instructions
• Patients unable to consume solids
• Uncooperative Patients
• Patients with an aversion to pills
  

Imitrex ODT Tablets also begin working faster than regular tablets, with effects felt in about 15 to 20 minutes, compared to about 30 minutes for regular tablets.

Taking Imitrex ODT Tablets:

Like other forms of Imitrex, Imitrex ODT Tablets are taken as needed at the earliest symptoms of a migraine. If unable to take at the start of a headache, Imitrex will still help mitigate headache pain at later stages.

This medication may be taken with or without food.

ODT Tablets are available in a variety of strengths, from 25 mg to 100 mg. If a smaller dose is only partially effective, additional doses may be taken as long as the amount does not exceed 200 mg in a 24 hour period. Additional doses should be taken at least 2 hours after the previous dose.

Other migraine medications, including other forms of Imitrex, should be avoided while taking Imitrex ODT Tablets unless instructed otherwise by a physician.

Imitrex ODT Tablets are effective only against migraine headaches and will have no effect on other types of headaches. For cluster headaches, see Imitrex Injections or Imitrex Nasal Spray.

Ingredients:

Active ingredient: sumatriptan

Inactive ingredients: sodium bicarbonate, calcium hydrogen phosphate anhydrous, croscarmellose sodium, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate

Adverse Effects:

Like all prescription and non-prescription medications, Imitrex ODT Tablets carry some risk of side effects and drug interactions. Patients should read the insert included with the medication in entirety prior to consumption.

Imitrex is a well-tested medication and most reported side effects are mild:

• Flushing or feeling warm
• Mild dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Drowsiness

Rarely Imitrex produces more severe side effects, which should be immediately be brought to the attention of physician:

• Pain, tightness, or heaviness in chest or throat
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Rash, hives, or swelling (allergic reaction)

Imitrex is known to interact with certain other prescription medications. The physician prescribing Imitrex should be made aware of all other medications being taken.

Contraindications:

Patients with certain medical conditions are poor candidates for Imitrex. The risk of severe side effects is greater in patients suffering from:

• Poor blood circulation
• Coronary heart disease or angina
• High blood pressure
• Liver disease
• Ischemic bowel disease
• Unusual, or unusually severe, headaches

Patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure should not take Imitrex.

Use of Imitrex during pregnancy, if trying to become pregnant, or if breast feeding should be avoided unless explicitly instructed otherwise by a physician.

Imitrex ODT tablets are an ideal solution for fast and effective migraine management in patients who have difficulty with or an aversion to consuming traditional pills.