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AlmotriptanPronounced"AL-moe-TRIP-tan" Common brand names:Axert UsesAlmotriptan is used to treat migraines. It helps to relieve headache, pain, and other migraine symptoms (including nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light/sound). Prompt treatment helps you return to your normal routine and may decrease your need for other pain medications. Almotriptan belongs to a class of drugs known as triptans. It affects a certain natural substance (serotonin) that narrows blood vessels in the brain. It may also relieve pain by affecting certain nerves in the brain. Almotriptan does not prevent future migraines or lessen how often you get migraine attacks. How to Use This MedicationRead the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking almotriptan and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. If you have a higher risk for heart problems (see Precautions), your doctor may perform a heart exam before you start taking almotriptan. He/she may also direct you to use your first dose of this medication in the office/clinic to monitor for serious side effects (such as chest pain). Talk to your doctor for details. Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor at the first sign of a migraine. Do not take almotriptan to prevent a migraine. If there is no improvement in your symptoms, do not take more doses of this medication before talking to your doctor. If your symptoms are only partly relieved, or if your headache comes back, you may take a second dose after 2 hours. Do not take more than 2 doses in a 24-hour period. The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). If you are using drugs for migraine attacks on 10 or more days each month, the drugs may actually make your headaches worse (medication overuse headache). Do not use medications more often or for longer than directed. Tell your doctor if you need to use this medication more often, or if the medication is not working as well, or if your headaches get worse. |