Sumatriptan

Sumatriptan is a well-known medicine used mainly for treating migraines and sometimes cluster headaches. Here’s a full breakdown:

💊 What It Is

• Belongs to a class of drugs called triptans (serotonin 5-HT₁B/₁D receptor agonists).

• Brand names include Imitrex and Imigran (depending on country).

• Available in tablets, nasal sprays, and injections.

✅ Uses

• Acute treatment of:

  • Migraine attacks (with or without aura).

  • Cluster headaches (injection/nasal spray forms are often preferred).

• Not for prevention of migraines—only for stopping an active attack.

⚙️ How It Works

• Migraines are linked to dilated blood vessels and inflammation in the brain.

• Sumatriptan narrows blood vessels around the brain and reduces the release of certain pain-signaling substances.

• This relieves headache, nausea, and light/sound sensitivity.

💉 Available Forms & Typical Doses

• Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg.

• Nasal spray: 10 mg or 20 mg.

• Injection (subcutaneous): 4 mg or 6 mg pre-filled syringes or auto-injectors.

• A dose may be repeated after 2 hours if symptoms return, but maximum limits apply (varies by form).

⚠️ Side Effects & Risks

• Common: Tingling, flushing, dizziness, fatigue, feeling of heaviness or tightness in chest/throat/limbs.

• Less common: Nausea, drowsiness.

• Serious (rare): Chest pain, heart attack, stroke (risk is higher in patients with cardiovascular disease).

🚫 Who Should Avoid It

• People with history of:

  • Heart disease, angina, heart attack, stroke, or uncontrolled high blood pressure.

  • Severe liver disease.

• Not usually given to children or elderly patients without specialist guidance.

⚖️ Regulation

• Prescription-only in most countries (UK, US, EU, etc.).

• Should always be used under doctor’s supervision, since safety depends on medical history.

✅ Summary:
Sumatriptan is a fast-acting, effective medicine for acute migraine and cluster headache relief. It works by narrowing brain blood vessels and blocking pain signals. It’s not for prevention, and it carries risks for people with heart or circulation problems.