Information about Zomig (Zolmitriptan)
Zomig is the brand name for Zolmitriptan, a medication primarily used to treat acute migraine attacks with or without aura. Zolmitriptan belongs to a class of drugs called triptans, which work by constricting blood vessels around the brain, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain associated with migraines. It can be taken in tablet form, nasal spray, or orally disintegrating tablet form, making it versatile for different patient needs.
Product Highlights
- Zomig is primarily used for the treatment of:
- Zomig is used to treat the pain and associated symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound) of an ongoing migraine attack.
- Zomig can be used for migraines that are accompanied by aura (visual disturbances) or without aura.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Zomig effectively reduces the headache pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound associated with migraines.
- Zolmitriptan acts quickly, often providing relief within 30 minutes after administration.
- Available in oral tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and a nasal spray, making it convenient for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills or prefer a different method of administration.
- It is considered safe for those who experience moderate to severe migraines and require quick, effective treatment.
- By reducing the severity of migraine attacks, Zomig helps patients get back to their daily activities sooner and improves their overall quality of life during migraine episodes.
Direction of Use
- Zomig is usually taken at the first sign of a migraine. The usual recommended dose is 2.5 mg or 5 mg, and a second dose can be taken after 2 hours if symptoms persist (up to a maximum of 10 mg in a 24-hour period).
- For patients who cannot swallow tablets, Zomig comes in an orally disintegrating tablet form. The instructions for dosage are similar to the oral tablet form.
- The usual dose for the nasal spray is 5 mg per nostril (10 mg total) at the onset of a migraine attack.
- Zomig should only be used for acute migraine treatment and not as a preventive treatment. Be sure to adhere to the dosage instructions given by your healthcare provider.
- It is important to stay hydrated, especially if taking the nasal spray, as dryness may occur.
Safety Concerns
- Zomig can cause vasoconstriction, which may be harmful to individuals with heart problems, such as a history of heart attack, angina, or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Combining Zomig with certain other medications that affect serotonin levels (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, MAO inhibitors) can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Watch for symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, or loss of coordination.
- Taking too much Zomig or using it too frequently can lead to medication overuse headaches (MOH), where headaches worsen over time.
- Common side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, tiredness, or nausea. These typically subside after the body adjusts to the medication.
- Zomig is classified as a Category C medication during pregnancy, meaning its safety in pregnant women has not been established. It should only be used when the potential benefits are greater than the possible risks to the fetus.
Avoid Zomig (Zolmitriptan) If
- You have known hypersensitivity or allergy to zolmitriptan or any of its components.
- You have severe heart disease, including coronary artery disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, history of heart attack, or angina.
- You have a history of stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA).
- You are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have recently taken them (within the last 14 days).
- You have a history of hemiplegic or basilar migraine (a rare type of migraine that involves motor weakness or symptoms of brainstem dysfunction).
- You have severe liver or kidney impairment.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless directed by a healthcare provider, as the effects on a fetus or infant are not fully known.
