Migrex (frovatriptan) is a medication in the triptan class of drugs used to treat migraine headaches and symptoms associated with migraines, such as auras, light or noise sensitivity, and nausea.

Note that the active ingredients in Migrex may vary depending on what part of the world it's being sold in. In the U.S., for example, this product is sold as "Frova"; the U.S. product "Migrex" contains acetaminophen, dichloralphenazone and isometheptene, and does not contain frovatriptan. In parts of Africa, the product "Migrex" contains sumatriptan instead of frovatriptan.

The product being sold on this page and discussed in this article contains the active ingredient frovatriptan.

Stop Migraine Pain with Migrex:

Migrex is a powerful tool for combating migraine pain and symptoms. Used properly, many patients find it so successful at migraine management that headaches no longer interfere with daily activities.

Though the exact cause of migraines is unknown, it is widely believed that pain and side effects are caused or exacerbated by widened blood vessels, which in turn puts pressure on the brain. Frovatriptan, like other triptan drugs, constricts the blood vessels, relieving pressure on the brain, which in turn eases pain and other symptoms.

Migrex will not prevent blood vessels from widening in the first place; that is, it will not prevent a migraine from happening if taken prior to symptoms, or reduce the frequency of migraines. There is currently no cure for migraines.

One tablet should be taken as soon as migraine symptoms are noticed. After an interval of two hours, if symptoms persist or the headache returns, another tablet may be taken. Do not exceed three tablets in a 24 hour period.

Tablets can be taken with or without food and fluids.

If vomiting occurs within 30 minutes of taking a tablet, another dose may be taken.

Though most effective if taken at the early stages of a headache, Migrex will still help ease pain and symptoms if taken at later stages.

Side Effects and Interactions:

The most commonly experienced side effects associate with this medication are mild and pass quickly:

• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Flushing, hot or cold flashes
• Indigestion or nausea
• Fatigue

Occasionally more serious adverse reactions occur, which should be brought to the attention of a doctor:

• Allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling of face or throat)
• Confusion, disorientation, slurred speech
• Severe stomach pain
• Worsening of headache symptoms
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle spasms or seizures

Patients with a history of heart, liver or kidney problems, or who have high blood pressure or high cholesterol have a higher risk of experiencing side effects when taking this product.

Like most prescription medications, Migrex may interact with other drugs being taken. Though serious adverse reactions are rare, interactions may reduce the effectiveness of Migrex or other treatments. Speak with a physician or pharmacist before mixing medications.

Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should discuss risks with a doctor before using Migrex.

When Not to Use Migrex:

The mechanics of other types of headaches, such as tension headaches, are different from migraines. This medication will not relieve other types of headaches.

Triptan drugs are somewhat effective on cluster headaches, but results are usually poor when the medication is delivered in tablet form. Cluster headache sufferers may want to look into faster administration methods, such as Imitrex Injections or Imitrex Nasal Spray.

Do not use other migraine treatments, particularly those in the triptan class, while taking Migrex unless explicitly instructed to do so by a doctor. Dangerous side effects may occur as a result.

For some patients this medication will become less effective over time. If this happens, speak with a physician about alternative treatment options. In some cases alternating treatments with other medications will restore or preserve effectiveness.