Zolmitriptan: indications for prescription, dosage, side effects

The appearance of migraine is characterized by the appearance of severe headache( usually having a one-sided nature), photophobia, nausea. In connection with the widespread spread of migraines, various medicines for pain relief, one of which is Zolmitriptan, are being actively developed and manufactured. This drug stimulates the serotonin receptors in the brain, thereby contributing to the disappearance of the migraine attack. The price of Zolmitriptan is high( from 1400 rubles for 12 tablets), however, good reviews of doctors and patients have determined its frequent use.

How does Zolmitriptan work?

According to the instructions, Zolmitriptan is able to activate certain serotonin receptors in the brain and blood vessels. The active substance acts selectively, does not affect other receptors, which causes a rare occurrence of side effects.

Due to its effect on the receptor apparatus, the drug reduces nervous impulses, influences blood flow in the vessels of the central nervous system. This leads to the appearance of an analgesic effect, narrowing the lumen of the arteries. As a result of such changes, a number of neuropeptides are released that help to relieve the migraine attack. What tablets are prescribed for migraine: types and recommendations.

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In this case, the patient has a decrease in the intensity of pain, disappears nausea, vomiting, fear of light, loud sounds. In addition, Zolmitriptan regulates the work of some centers in the brain stem, which also play an important role in the development of migraine. This action leads to a persistent therapeutic effect that reduces the risk of recurrent seizures.

The drug is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract( 60-70%), and this process is not dependent on food intake. The optimal concentration of the active substance is observed in the bloodstream one hour after taking the medication. The drug is excreted mainly with urine and feces.

Indications and contraindications to the appointment of

There is only one indication for the use of Zolmitriptan - these are actually migraine attacks that require rapid drug therapy. The list of contraindications is more extensive and includes the following conditions:

• increase in blood pressure, not reduced by drugs;
• ischemic heart disease in any of its manifestations( angina pectoris, painless myocardial ischemia);
• cardiac arrhythmias with additional conductive pathways;
• varieties of migraine: basilar, hemiplegic;
• Hypersensitivity to the drug components or allergic reactions.

In each specific case, the decision to prescribe Zolmitriptan should be taken only by the attending physician, who is able to objectively evaluate all the indications and contraindications to the use of the remedy.

Instructions for use and dosage

According to the instructions for use Zolmitriptan is administered orally in the form of tablets. The standard therapeutic dosage is 2.5 m. If the effect does not come or the symptoms of migraine attack return, then after two hours you can take an additional dose of the drug. At one time it is permissible to take 5 mg, for one day - not more than 15 mg.

Zolmitriptan, as a rule, has a very rapid effect for several tens of minutes, which is associated with a good absorption of the drug, a rapid achievement of the therapeutic concentration of the active substance in the blood. If the medication is ineffective, it is recommended that you consult your doctor to choose an analogue or clarify the diagnosis.

Side effects and overdose Zolmitriptan

The main symptom of an overdose is oppression of mental activity, lethargy, drowsiness, low ability to attention, memory. Specific antidote is not developed. Treatment is only symptomatic, aimed at preventing the progression of such severe symptoms as respiratory and cardiovascular failure. In case of overdose, it is always necessary to seek professional medical help in a medical institution.

Of the side effects of Zolmitriptan, the following are distinguished:

• nausea;
• sensation of dry mouth;
• dizziness( see Causes of dizziness);
• increased drowsiness;
• reduced mental, physical performance;
• feeling of discomfort in the throat, limbs, back.

A number of patients may increase blood pressure, attacks of muscle weakness, muscle pain. When side effects occur, the attending physician adjusts the dose of the drug or makes a decision to refuse from Zolmitriptan, switching to its analogues or preparations of another pharmacological group.

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Interaction with other medicines

When Zolmitriptan is appointed, it is necessary to analyze the entire list of medicines that the patient is currently taking, or has recently used. The following drugs affect the metabolism of Zolmitriptan, which can lead to the development of unwanted drug reactions:

1. Naratriptan and Sumatriptan are not recommended for use with Zolmitriptan, since the substances act on the same receptors, which can lead to an inadequate response of the body.
2. Fluvoxamine is associated with Zolmitriptan by common biochemical pathways of destruction of the active substance in the liver. Simultaneous administration should not be accompanied by taking more than 5 mg Zolmitriptan daily.
3. Cimetidine has the same characteristics as Fluvoxamine, associated with the need to limit the dose of Zolmitriptan.

A good effect when taking the instructions makes Zolmitriptan a very popular drug in patients with migraine, despite the fact that its price is high. However, it is important to remember that in migraine attacks, it is always necessary to seek professional medical assistance for the examination and selection of optimal methods of treatment.