Almotriptan

About almotriptan

It is thought that the widening of blood vessels in the brain causes the pain associated with migraine. Almotriptan is effective in relieving migraine attacks once an attack has started but it does not help prevent headaches or migraine attacks from starting. It works by stimulating receptors called serotonin (or 5HT1) receptors that are found in the brain. This causes the blood vessels to narrow and relieves the pain felt during a migraine.

Before taking almotriptan

Before taking almotriptan make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from heart problems.
• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you suffer from liver problems.
• If you suffer from Prinzmetal's angina or circulatory problems such as Raynaud's disease.
• If you have recently suffered a heart attack, stroke or TIA (sometimes known as a mini-stroke).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine. It is especially important that your doctor knows if you have ever had a reaction to a sulphonamide used to treat an infection.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

• Note: almotriptan is not suitable for under 18 year-olds.

How to take almotriptan

• Before beginning your treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take almotriptan exactly as directed by your doctor. Take one tablet with a drink of water as soon as possible at the beginning of your attack. If your migraine returns, you may take one further tablet providing it is at least two hours after the initial dose. Do not take more than two doses in 24 hours. If your migraine is not eased after the first dose do not take the second dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Almotriptan should not be used in combination with migraine treatments containing ergotamine or methysergide. If you have been taking an ergotamine preparation to prevent migraine, you must leave a gap of 24 hours before taking almotriptan. A gap of 6 hours after taking almotriptan is also needed before taking any doses of ergotamine. If in doubt ask your doctor or pharmacist.
• Almotriptan should not be used in combination with other 5HT1 agonists such as eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan or zolmitriptan.
• If you are having an increasing number of migraines or you find that almotriptan does not relieve your migraine, make an appointment to see your doctor.
• Before buying any other medicines, check with your pharmacist which are safe for you to take alongside almotriptan.

Can almotriptan cause problems?

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

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

How to store almotriptan

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines