Isometheptene and Paracetamol

About isometheptene & paracetamol

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antimigraine drugs.

It is a combination medicine containing isometheptene mucate and paracetamol. It is used to treat migraine attacks.

Research has shown that migraine can be caused by the swelling of blood vessels around the brain. Isometheptene narrows these blood vessels and with Paracetamol (a pain killer) helps to ease the pain associated with migraine.

Isometheptene & paracetamol is available in capsule form.

It is also sometimes known as: Midrid. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking isometheptene & paracetamol

Before taking isometheptene & paracetamol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from heart, liver or kidney problems
• if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure), an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, porphyria (a blood disorder) or diabetes
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines especially MAOI antidepressents.

How to take isometheptene & paracetamol

• Take isometheptene & paracetamol exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take two capsules at the start of a migraine attack, then take one capsule every hour, if required, as directed by your doctor. No more than five capsules to be taken within 12 hours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of isometheptene & paracetamol contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• Isometheptene & paracetamol is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside isometheptene & paracetamol.
• Do not take any other preparations containing paracetamol at the same time as this medicine. Always check first because many common medicines available 'over the counter' also contain paracetamol.
• Isometheptene & paracetamol can cause dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.

Can isometheptene & paracetamol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted symptoms. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome.

Dizziness, problems with circulation, skin rashes.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist or doctor.

How to store isometheptene & paracetamol

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 19/10/2005